Rain and Storms Arrive in Maryland Thursday
A cold front brings a chance of rain and thunderstorms to Maryland from Thursday through Friday.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Forecasts
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A cold front is forecast to bring rain and thunderstorms to Maryland from Thursday through Friday. Between a quarter and a half inch of rainfall is expected statewide over those two days.
Why it matters
Forecasters expect an 80% chance of rain on Friday and an elevated risk of lightning, which could affect travel and outdoor plans across the state. Lightning chances are slightly elevated in several counties, including Prince George's, Charles, St. Mary's, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford and Cecil.
The forecast gives an 80% chance of rain Friday, with between a quarter and a half inch of rain expected Thursday through Friday and wind gusts of 5 mph to 8 mph. Exact storm timing and where the heaviest rain will fall remain uncertain.
The details
Mostly sunny skies are forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday before a cold front moves into Maryland. The first rain is expected around 1 p.m. Thursday, with temperatures holding in the mid-70s, and thunderstorm cells are forecast to develop and move in Thursday night.
Timeline
Tuesday and Wednesday: Mostly sunny skies are forecast.
Thursday around 1 p.m.: First rain is expected as the cold front moves in.
Thursday night: Thunderstorm cells develop with an elevated lightning risk.
Friday: Highest chance of storms, with an 80% chance of rain.
Sunday night and Monday: A slight chance of rainfall returns.
Seasonal Patterns
Cold-front rain events of this kind are a routine feature of Maryland's late-autumn transition, when early-November systems move through the Mid-Atlantic. The forecast follows a typical pattern of mostly sunny days giving way to a frontal system with a brief return of light rain by early the following week.
Residents planning outdoor activities for Thursday afternoon and Friday should expect rain and possible thunderstorms with elevated lightning risk. Those in Prince George's, Charles, St. Mary's, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford and Cecil counties should be especially aware of lightning.
The takeaway
Plan outdoor activities for Friday around an 80% chance of rain, and keep an eye on lightning risk Thursday night. Check forecasts again closer to the event, since storm timing can shift.
What happens next
Forecasters expect rain to arrive around 1 p.m. Thursday and the highest storm chance on Friday, with a slight chance of rain returning Sunday night and Monday.
Further reading
For the latest details on incoming storms, see Forecasts for Maryland.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Patch.
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