Maryland – A pale winter sun rises over the Potomac, but it brings little warmth as sharp cold settles across the DC metro early this morning. Breath clouds the air, metal railings sting to the touch, and sidewalks remain slick where moisture froze before dawn.
According to the National Weather Service office serving Baltimore and Washington, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through Sunday morning, with a second advisory beginning this evening. Wind chills as low as 10 below zero are expected at times across the District, central and southern Maryland, and northern Virginia. Prolonged exposure can lead to hypothermia and frostbite without proper protection.
Temperatures near 15 degrees are being reported around Fort Belvoir and parts of Northern Virginia, with northwest winds adding bite. Travel impacts remain limited by dry conditions, but refreezing is a concern. Elevated roadways along I-95, I-66, the Capital Beltway, and bridges crossing the Potomac may develop icy patches late today and again overnight. Drivers are urged to slow down and allow extra stopping distance.
Sunday brings sunshine, but the cold persists. Afternoon highs struggle to reach the mid-20s, and gusty winds keep wind chills in the single digits. Another cold night follows, with lows dropping into the teens before gradual improvement early next week.
By Monday, calmer conditions allow temperatures to climb into the 30s. Midweek brings a slow moderation, though another system may introduce a chance for light snow by Tuesday night or Wednesday. Any melting during the day could refreeze quickly after sunset, keeping slick spots in play.
Looking toward the first full week of February, longer-range outlooks suggest colder-than-normal air lingering across the Mid-Atlantic, with limited precipitation but repeated freeze–thaw cycles. Additional advisories may be issued as conditions evolve.
Heading out today? Dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and watch for icy pavement. How are road conditions where you are traveling?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Washington, DC Area
- Today: Mostly cloudy and very cold. High near 20°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, cold. High near 26°F.
- Monday: Sunny and cold. High near 34°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High near 37°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, chance of snow. High near 33°F.
