Baltimore, Maryland – Additional Cold Weather Advisories have been issued across the Mid-Atlantic as dangerously cold air settles into the region tonight through Saturday morning, bringing wind chill values at or below zero in many locations.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington, the advisory is valid from 8 p.m. tonight until 11 a.m. Saturday. Wind chill values are expected to fall to zero degrees or lower east of the Blue Ridge Mountains, while colder air over the Allegheny Mountains may drive wind chills to 10 to 20 degrees below zero.
The coldest conditions are expected overnight into early Saturday morning, when brisk winds combine with already frigid temperatures. These conditions significantly increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, particularly for anyone spending extended time outdoors without adequate protection.
Travelers and commuters along major corridors including Interstate 95, Interstate 81, Interstate 66, Interstate 70, and U.S. Route 15 should prepare for extreme cold exposure, especially in the event of vehicle trouble or delays. While widespread snowfall is not expected during the advisory period, cold pavement temperatures may still allow isolated icy patches in untreated areas.
The National Weather Service urges residents to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit outdoor activity when possible. Frostbite can occur in as little as 30 minutes under subzero wind chill conditions. Pets should be brought indoors, and residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, young children, and those without adequate heating.
Homeowners are advised to take precautions to protect plumbing, including insulating exposed pipes and allowing faucets to drip overnight. Safe use of heating equipment is also emphasized, with officials warning against the indoor use of grills or generators.
Cold conditions are expected to gradually ease later Saturday, though below-normal temperatures will linger into the weekend. Commuters, students, and early-morning workers across Maryland, northern Virginia, eastern West Virginia, and the District of Columbia should continue monitoring forecast updates as conditions evolve.
