Baltimore residents should prepare for a significant weather shift this weekend, as Friday through Sunday has been designated as First Alert Weather Days due to the potential for snowfall followed by dangerously cold temperatures.
On Friday, the day will start off dry and chilly with temperatures in the low to mid-teens. As clouds gather throughout the morning, snow showers and some snow squalls are forecasted to move in during the afternoon and evening hours. Temperatures will rise slightly to the upper 20s and low 30s. Motorists are advised to exercise caution as slick travel conditions may develop in the evening commute, particularly after sunset, due to light snow accumulation of a dusting to an inch.
Of particular concern is the mountainous region of western Maryland, where heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected. A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for Garrett County, where driving may become hazardous, especially along I-68.
As the snow comes to an end late Friday night, frigid temperatures will settle in. Saturday will see wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph, potentially reaching up to 60 mph in localized areas, contributing to an Extreme Cold Watch being in effect. Morning temperatures will hover in the low to mid-teens, but wind chills are projected to plunge to between -15° and 0° in the Baltimore metro area. Conditions will remain dangerously cold throughout Saturday, with further chill expected on Sunday as temperatures drop into the single digits.
In the wake of this severe cold, a warming trend is anticipated for the following week, with temperatures inching toward 40° by Tuesday. This may bring a shift in weather patterns as we move closer to Valentine’s Day, presenting the potential for more unsettled weather.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the changing weather conditions and plan accordingly to ensure safety during this harsh winter period.