This week’s major weather story will be a significant warmup across the Baltimore region, along with breezy conditions toward the weekend.

Temperatures could rise to the low 70s in some areas Tuesday, giving us an early taste of spring. But don’t pack up your winter coats yet. If you know Maryland weather, that doesn’t mean we’re done with cold weather.

Overnight Sunday, skies will remain mostly clear after a pleasant afternoon. Conditions will be chilly, dropping into the mid- to upper 30s regionwide, so you’ll need a jacket if heading out early Monday.

Monday is shaping up to be another delightful day. Expect a pleasant mix of sunshine and clouds, with afternoon temperatures climbing comfortably into the upper 60s — a good day for enjoying outdoor activities.

Monday night into early Tuesday, temperatures will dip into the upper 30s, a little chilly but relatively mild for this time of year. Tuesday afternoon will feel springlike, with high temperatures reaching into the upper 60s and even low 70s in some locations.

However, changes will arrive Tuesday night. A backdoor cold front will push through, introducing cooler air from the east. Wednesday morning will feature mostly cloudy skies and noticeably cooler conditions. High temperatures on Wednesday will reach only into the mid- to upper 50s due to the persistent cool wedge and easterly winds.

Temperatures will begin a gradual recovery Thursday, with partly to mostly cloudy skies continuing. Highs will reach the lower 60s, still somewhat moderated by persistent easterly winds. By Friday, warmer conditions return, and afternoon temperatures will approach 70 degrees as southerly airflow strengthens ahead of an advancing storm system.

Looking toward the weekend, a powerful storm system will track through the midsection of the country late in the week, impacting our region by Saturday. Winds will noticeably increase ahead of this system, becoming quite gusty, especially Saturday afternoon into Saturday night. Southwest wind gusts could exceed 40 mph, so secure loose outdoor objects in advance.

These strong southwest winds will usher in very warm conditions for Saturday, pushing high temperatures well into the lower to middle 70s, making it feel more like late spring than mid-March.

By Sunday, the approaching cold front will increase clouds and bring a risk of showers and thunderstorms by afternoon. The highest rain chances will occur Sunday afternoon into the evening hours before diminishing overnight. High temperatures Sunday afternoon will again be mild, in the upper 60s to lower 70s.

Behind this cold front, expect cooler weather to settle back into the area early next week.