Wind Gusts Up To 60 MPH Possible In MD: National Weather Service

Strong winds will blow through Maryland on Monday, according to the National Weather Service, which has posted high wind warnings across the state. Gusts could reach up to 60 mph, according to authorities.

Falling trees are a major concern, according to the National Weather Service, since strong winds will continue for hours in areas where the ground is saturated from recent rain and snowmelt.

Here is a look at the winds in the forecast, according to the National Weather Service:

• Sunday afternoon: 25 to 45 mph winds, with gusts from 50 to 55 mph
• Overnight: 15 to 25 mph winds, with gusts from 35 to 45 mph
• Monday morning to afternoon: 20 to 40 mph winds, with gusts up to 60 mph

Due to the potential for hazardous conditions, the National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings, which in some cases replace earlier wind advisories, officials said Monday morning.

High Wind Warning

The National Weather Service issues a high wind warning when sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of at least 58 mph can lead to property damage and other hazards.

Trees and power lines may blow down, resulting in scattered power outages, officials warn.

"It will not take much wind to result in downed trees and power lines," the warning states.

A high wind warning is in effect for the following until 6 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 25:

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

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Area emergency officials are encouraging residents to prepare.

Preparing For Strong Winds

Secure outdoor furniture and objects.

Charge electronic devices.

Clear dead trees or branches hanging over structures.

Driving In Strong Winds

Keep both hands on the wheel.

Increase following distance, since gusts may blow vehicles across the road, particularly SUVs, trucks, vans and other high-profile vehicles.

Drive to the shoulder, away from objects that might fall on your vehicle, and put on hazards if winds are too strong to drive safely.

Call 911 and do not touch the metal frame of your vehicle if a power line falls on your car.

During High Winds

Stay inside if possible.

Watch for flying debris.

Call the utility company if a power line falls or is sparking; do not touch it.

• BGE: 1-800-685-0123.
• Delmarva Power: 1-800-898-8042.
• Pepco: 1-877-737-2662.

The high wind safety tips above are from the National Weather Service.

A High Wind Warning is now in effect late this afternoon through Monday evening for our area. Wind gusts of 45-60 mph can be expected during this time. This may cause downed trees and power lines along with difficult travel. #CecilCounty #CecilSheriff #CecilWx pic.twitter.com/SehbrhQZAd
— Emergency Services (@CecilCountyDES) February 24, 2019

A high wind warning is in effect this afternoon through 1 PM Monday, per @NWS Falling trees are a concern because of the saturated soil. Details: https://t.co/FDmuya8beq pic.twitter.com/5MQbiRVVeH
— Baltimore County Emergency Management (@BaltCoEmergency) February 24, 2019

This is the forecast for the Baltimore area from the National Weather Service:

Sunday: Isolated showers. Breezy, with a high near 58 and low of 31.

Monday: Sunny and windy, with a high near 42 and low of 27.

Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 42 and low of 26.

Wednesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 38 and low of 31.

Thursday: A chance of snow before 1 p.m, then a chance of rain and snow. High near 45 and low of 33.

Friday: A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 45 and low of 36.

Saturday: A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 53.