BALTIMORE, MD – The National Weather Service has issued an urgent Tornado Watch for much of Central and Northern Maryland, effective until 8 p.m. tonight, Wednesday, March 11, 2026. The watch comes as a severe weather outbreak sweeping eastward brings a heightened risk of damaging storms to the region.
Meteorologists warn that strong to severe thunderstorms developing this afternoon and evening could produce damaging winds, large hail, and an isolated tornado. The WBAL-TV 11 Weather Team has declared today an Alert Day due to the severe threat.
“First slight risk of the season for the Baltimore area,” stated the station’s weather team on social media. “Damaging wind, large hail, and a tornado can’t be ruled out.”
This active weather follows a day of record-breaking warmth on Tuesday and is part of a larger system that produced deadly tornadoes in the Midwest earlier this week. A strong cold front moving through the area this afternoon is triggering the unstable conditions.
Maryland’s Tornado History and Preparedness
While tornadoes can occur in Maryland any time of year, the most common period is April through November, with most happening between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., according to the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM). The state typically sees several tornadoes annually, many causing little damage in rural areas.
However, history shows Maryland is not immune to powerful and destructive twisters. The most notable recent event was the devastating F-4 tornado that struck La Plata on April 28, 2002. That tornado carved a 64-mile path, killed three people, injured over 100, and caused damage exceeding $100 million, destroying or damaging more than 1,000 homes and businesses.
Data from a NOAA tornado archive shows Maryland has experienced 433 tornadoes since 1950, resulting in 9 direct fatalities and over $382 million in property damage. The deadliest years since 1950 were 2002 and 2001, which together accounted for 5 fatalities and hundreds of injuries.
What to Do During the Watch and Warning
Authorities urge residents to know the difference between a watch and a warning and to have a plan:
- Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes. Be prepared to take action.
- Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.
If a warning is issued for your area:
- Go to a safe location such as a basement, storm cellar, or a small interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
- Stay away from windows.
- If you are in a mobile home, get out immediately and seek shelter in a nearby sturdy building.
- If you are driving and see a tornado, do not try to outrun it. If possible, drive to the nearest shelter. If not, abandon your car and seek shelter in a low-lying area like a ditch, covering your head.
Residents should continue to monitor local news, NOAA Weather Radio, and official alerts for updates. Baltimore Gas and Electric advises customers to report outages and reminds everyone to never approach downed power lines.
The cold front will usher in much cooler temperatures for Thursday, with rain likely and highs falling into the 40s by the afternoon.