Strong easterly winds are pushing water levels higher across Coastal Maryland, with Annapolis and parts of Baltimore facing a growing risk of coastal flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Coastal Flood Warning for Annapolis, where tides are expected to peak near 3.6 feet tonight—enough to cause moderate flooding near the city’s harbor and waterfront streets.
Flooding Threat in Annapolis
As of this afternoon, water levels along the Severn River in Annapolis had already reached 2.39 feet, close to the minor flood stage. Moderate flooding begins at 3.3 feet, when low-lying roads and waterfront businesses near Dock Street and Compromise Street start to see water intrusion.
With high tide arriving this evening and winds continuing to push water inland, the NWS expects water levels to peak around 3.6 feet, which could:
Flood parking areas near the harbor
Cover parts of Dock Street and nearby businesses
Impact travel routes in downtown Annapolis
Cause localized street closures
Coastal Flood Warnings and Advisories in Place
The Coastal Flood Warning for Annapolis remains in effect through late Tuesday night, while Coastal Flood Advisories are active for other parts of Anne Arundel County and the western Chesapeake Bay, including portions of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.
Residents in those areas are being asked to:
Move vehicles to higher ground
Avoid parking near seawalls or docks
Secure boats and outdoor gear
Stay informed through local emergency alerts
What’s Causing the Flooding?
Persistent easterly winds are the main culprit, forcing tidal water into the bay and causing levels to rise above normal. This setup, combined with the natural high tide cycle, creates ideal conditions for coastal flooding along the Chesapeake shoreline.
More Flooding Possible Later This Week
The current flooding isn’t a one-time event. Forecasters warn that additional rounds of minor to moderate flooding could continue through the week, especially during high tides on Wednesday and Thursday.
Residents in flood-prone neighborhoods should continue to monitor water levels and be prepared for repeated disruptions through the next few days.
Five-Day Coastal Impact Outlook – Annapolis, MD
| Day | Tidal Flood Risk | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Moderate flooding near 3.6 ft | High tide late evening, flood warning in effect |
| Wednesday | Minor to moderate possible | Next flood risk late night |
| Thursday | Minor flooding likely | Winds continue, tides remain high |
| Friday | Easing conditions | Gradual improvement |
| Saturday | Low risk | Winds shifting, water levels normalize |
Annapolis and parts of coastal Maryland are experiencing significant tidal flooding, especially in areas near the harbor and low-lying roads. With tides peaking near 3.6 feet, businesses and homes along the waterfront are at risk of floodwater intrusion tonight. Additional rounds of high water are expected this week. Residents are encouraged to take precautions now, monitor local advisories, and avoid non-essential travel in flood-affected zones.
