Baltimore and surrounding areas in Maryland are experiencing a severe heat wave, with temperatures reaching record highs and heat index values potentially hitting 110°F. The National Weather Service has issued Excessive Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories through Wednesday, and residents are urged to take precautions to stay cool. Alongside the heat, isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms are expected, capable of damaging winds and torrential downpours. A cold front arriving on Wednesday will bring relief, with temperatures dropping to the upper 80s by Thursday, but also increasing the likelihood of severe weather. High humidity is expected to persist until Friday, when a significant drop will bring more comfortable conditions. This heat wave marks the hottest continuous stretch of weather in Baltimore since 1948.