Maryland may be known for its pleasant spring and summers, but the state’s weather can be quite unpredictable, especially in some of its smaller towns. These areas are prone to extreme weather conditions that can make life difficult for residents and visitors alike.
From intense storms to scorching heatwaves, the weather in Maryland’s small towns can be as exciting as it is unpredictable. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 10 small towns in Maryland that experience the most extreme weather. Whether you’re a seasoned Marylander or just visiting the state, this list is a must-read for anyone who wants to know what to expect from the weather.
The Stormy Side of Maryland: Towns with the Highest Precipitation
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the town of Oakland in Garrett County receives an average of 45 inches of snow per year, making it one of the snowiest places in the country (2). This is not surprising, given Oakland’s location in the western part of the state, where the relatively flat terrain allows for heavier snowfall. Nearby Frostburg, another small town in Garrett County, averages 36 inches of snow per year (3).
Hampstead in Carroll County is another small town that experiences a lot of precipitation, with an average annual rainfall of 43 inches, according to data from the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). Interestingly, Hampstead’s precipitation levels are not as extreme as other towns on our list, but the town’s proximity to Baltimore means that its residents are still likely to experience some of the state’s heaviest downpours.
Other small towns in Maryland that experience high levels of precipitation include Cumberland in Allegany County, with an average annual rainfall of 40 inches, and Westminster in Carroll County, with 39 inches. While these towns may not receive as much snow as Oakland, they are still well worth mentioning when it comes to the most extreme weather in Maryland.
Heatwave Havoc: Towns with the Highest Temperatures
While Maryland’s small towns may experience more precipitation than many other parts of the country, the state’s summers can be just as sweltering. One of the towns that experiences the hottest temperatures is Ocean City in Worcester County. During the summer months, the island town’s temperature can soar to well above 100 degrees, with an average high of 93°F (NCEI). This is not surprising given Ocean City’s location along the Atlantic coast, where the warm waters of the gulf stream help to moderate the temperature.
Other small towns in Maryland that experience high temperatures include Solomons in Calvert County, with an average high of 93°F during the summer months, and St. Michaels in Talbot County, with an average high of 92°F. According to data from the NCEI, these towns may not experience as many extremely hot days as Ocean City, but their temperatures are still well worth mentioning when it comes to the most extreme weather in Maryland.
Tornado Alley ( Sort Of ): Towns with the Highest Tornado Activity
While Maryland is not typically thought of as a state prone to tornadoes, some of its small towns can experience more twisters than others. One of the towns that experiences the highest tornado activity is Bel Air in Harford County. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Bel Air has seen an average of 10 tornadoes per year over the past decade (NCEI). While these tornadoes may not be as intense as those experienced in the Midwest or South, they are still a concern for residents and visitors alike.
Other small towns in Maryland that experience higher tornado activity include Baltimore in the city of Baltimore and Hagerstown in Washington County, with an average of 6 and 5 tornadoes per year, respectively, according to NOAA data. While these towns may not experience as many tornadoes as Bel Air, they are still worth mentioning when it comes to the most extreme weather in Maryland.
Wildfires and Thunderstorms: Other Extreme Weather Events in Maryland
While the small towns in Maryland that experience the most extreme weather are often associated with storms, heatwaves, and tornadoes, other types of extreme weather events are also worth mentioning. One of these is wildfires, which can rage through the state’s rural areas, especially during periods of drought (2). According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), wildfires in Maryland can cause significant damage to property and the environment, and even put lives at risk.
Another type of extreme weather event that Maryland’s small towns experience is thunderstorms. These storms can be intense, producing heavy rain, hail, and even tornadoes. According to the NCEI, the state’s thunderstorms are often associated with severe weather events, including damaging winds and large hail (NCEI). Some small towns in Maryland that experience these types of storms include Havre de Grace in Harford County and Annapolis in Anne Arundel County.
In conclusion, while the small towns in Maryland may experience a lot of extreme weather, this can also be a blessing in disguise. The state’s unpredictable weather can also provide opportunities for adventure and exploration, especially for residents and visitors who are looking for a unique experience (3). So, whether you’re a resident or just visiting, be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, and enjoy the ride!
