BALTIMORE, MD—As high pressure pulls away from the coast, a return to southerly winds will yield much warmer weather on Thursday in the Baltimore area.

High temperatures should rise into the upper 80s to near 90 degrees in some spots, accompanied by some isolated showers.

The heat intensifies with near-record highs expected on Friday.  Severe weather chances will also increase by Friday, with storms possible throughout the day.

Residents should stay tuned to local forecasts and take steps to avoid the heat.

Photo via the National Weather Service