What is left of Hurricane Isaias is making its way toward Maryland, and Harford County residents should expect a messy Sunday. Heavy rain, gusty winds, street flooding, and a low but real tornado risk are all on the table.
What We Know: The remnants of Hurricane Isaias will reach Maryland late Saturday night. The worst of it arrives Sunday, October 11, and conditions should improve by Monday, October 12. The National Weather Service has increased its concern about the storm’s impacts since Friday.
What Harford County Can Expect: Harford County falls in the same impact zone as Baltimore and central Maryland. Residents should expect heavy rain Sunday, with several rounds continuing into the evening. Wind gusts of 20 to 30 miles per hour are possible, with stronger gusts in exposed areas. Street flooding is possible, particularly in low-lying spots and areas with poor drainage. Rainfall totals will generally run 1 to 2 inches, with some areas seeing up to 3 inches. No hurricane-force winds are expected here.
Havre de Grace, Pay Attention: Waterfront residents face a few specific concerns. Tidal water levels along the waterfront could rise. Road flooding is possible. Isolated severe thunderstorms could develop. Rain is expected to begin early Sunday, with a 99% chance of rain and a high near 66 degrees. Thunderstorms could linger into early Monday morning.
The Tornado Risk: The tornado risk is low — but it is not zero. The National Weather Service identifies an isolated tornado threat, particularly Sunday. Harford County carries that same low-level risk. Keep that in mind if severe thunderstorms develop.
The Bigger Picture: Statewide, the greatest concerns are flooding and strong thunderstorms, especially in central and eastern Maryland. Annapolis and Anne Arundel County face a coastal flood watch Sunday afternoon and evening, with water potentially rising up to one foot above ground level near the City Dock. Western Garrett County faces a wind advisory, with gusts up to 50 miles per hour possible Saturday night into Sunday morning. Isolated power outages are possible across the state from gusty winds and downed tree limbs.
Take Action: Check your drainage areas and move anything that could become a projectile in gusty winds. Avoid low-lying roads during and after heavy rain. If you live near the Havre de Grace waterfront, monitor tidal levels Sunday. Have a plan if severe weather develops quickly.
What’s Next: Conditions improve Monday.