First Nor’easter of the Season Brings Rain, Strong Winds, and Coastal Flooding Risks in Maryland

Kathi Mullen
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First Nor’easter of the Season Brings Rain, Strong Winds, and Coastal Flooding Risks in Maryland

Baltimore, MD – Maryland is bracing for the season’s first significant nor’easter, expected to bring heavy rain, strong northeast winds, and coastal flooding risks from late Saturday, October 12, 2025, through early Monday, October 14, 2025.

The storm will lift northward from the Southeast coast, with central and eastern Maryland, including Baltimore, Annapolis, and the Eastern Shore, most likely to experience prolonged periods of inclement weather.

Rainfall Across the State

Saturday evening: Rain will begin spreading north, turning steady to heavy overnight.

Sunday morning: Widespread rainfall is expected, with the heaviest totals of 2–3 inches along and east of I-95, particularly from Annapolis to the Lower Eastern Shore.

  • Localized flooding may occur in urban areas or locations with clogged storm drains.
  • Western Maryland, west of Frederick and Hagerstown, will see lighter rainfall amounts of ½–¾ inch, though steady rain will continue.

Officials say flash flooding is unlikely, but standing water and ponding in low-lying areas are possible.

Wind and Power Concerns

As the storm intensifies offshore, a tight pressure gradient between the nor’easter and high pressure over New England will create strong northeast winds. Here is the breakdown as reported by CBS News –

  • Sustained winds: 15–25 mph statewide, increasing to 25–35 mph near the Chesapeake Bay
  • Gusts: Up to 40 mph possible along the Bay, coastal plain, and northern Baltimore and Harford counties
  • Power outages: Scattered outages may occur in areas with partially leafed-out trees and saturated soil

Mariners should prepare for dangerous conditions, with gale-force gusts and wave heights of 3–6 feet on open waters.

Coastal Flooding and Tidal Impacts

Persistent northeast winds will push water into the western Chesapeake Bay, causing minor to moderate tidal flooding, particularly in:

  • Annapolis
  • Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
  • Havre de Grace

Western shorelines exposed to northeast winds may experience multiple tide cycles above flood stage, with minor shoreline erosion along the Bay and tidal rivers.

Timeline of Nor’easter Impacts

  • Saturday Afternoon: Increasing clouds; scattered sprinkles possible in southern Maryland
  • Saturday Night: Rain spreads statewide; winds intensify
  • Sunday: Heavy rain and gusty northeast winds continue; coastal flooding possible during morning and evening high tides
  • Monday: Rain gradually tapers; breezy conditions persist into the afternoon

By Tuesday, the system will drift offshore, allowing sunshine to return with highs in the 60s to low 70s, though the Bay may remain choppy and tides elevated into early Tuesday.

Bottom Line for Maryland

  • Rainfall: 1–3 inches (locally higher east)
  • Wind Gusts: 35–40 mph along the Bay, 25–30 mph inland
  • Flooding Risk: Minor to moderate coastal flooding; localized street flooding possible
  • Power Issues: Scattered outages from gusty winds and saturated ground
  • Timing: Worst impacts from Saturday night through Sunday night

Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates, avoid low-lying coastal areas during high tides, and secure outdoor items. Stay tuned for continued coverage of storm impacts, flood alerts, and safety advice across Maryland.

Kathi Mullen

Kathi Mullen

Kathi Mullen is a dedicated news reporter with a sharp instinct for breaking stories and a passion for delivering accurate, compelling journalism. She covers everything from local developments to national headlines, always aiming to inform and engage her readers with clarity and integrity.

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