Gusts Up To 60 MPH Prompt High Wind Warning In Maryland

MARYLAND — The National Weather Service placed much of Maryland, including the Baltimore-Washington region, under a high wind warning from noon Friday until 2 a.m. Saturday.

Trees and power lines may blow down, and travel will be difficult, particularly for high-profile vehicles, according to authorities.

"Widespread power outages are expected," the National Weather Service warned Friday.

Northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph are expected during the warning period with gusts up to 60 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

Winds will begin to increase in the afternoon, with the highest gusts expected between 4 and 11 p.m., according to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service. Tree damage is expected.

"People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches," according to the high wind warning. "If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive."

Gusts will be highest — near 60 mph — between 6 and 8 p.m. Friday, according to the forecast.

Here is the timeline for wind gusts:

These jurisdictions are under the high wind warning until 2 a.m. Saturday, May 1:

• Anne Arundel County
• Baltimore City
• Baltimore County
• Carroll County
• Cecil County
• Frederick County
• Harford County
• Howard County
• Montgomery County
• Prince George's County

These towns are included in the high wind warning: Aberdeen, Arnold, Annapolis, Ballenger Creek, Columbia, Cockeysville, Eldersburg, Elkton, Ellicott City, Frederick, Germantown, Glen Burnie, Hagerstown, Jarrettsville, Lisbon, Odenton, Reisterstown, Severn and Severna Park.

There is an enhanced threat for the spread of fires due to gusty winds and low relative humidity Friday afternoon, officials noted.

Southern Maryland is under a wind advisory Friday through Saturday morning.

Here is the forecast for Annapolis from the National Weather Service:

Here is the forecast for Baltimore:

Here is the forecast for Bel Air:

Here is the forecast for Bowie:

Here is the forecast for Chevy Chase:

Here is the forecast for Columbia: