Baltimore, Maryland – A pair of powerful Arctic fronts are expected to sweep through the Mid-Atlantic Friday into Friday night, bringing dangerously cold temperatures, strong winds, and hazardous conditions through Sunday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office say the Arctic air mass will overspread Maryland, Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia, producing widespread extreme cold warnings and advisories across the region. Wind chills are expected to drop well below zero in parts of western Maryland, the Shenandoah Valley, and higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service, sustained winds combined with rapidly falling temperatures will create dangerous conditions, with frostbite possible on exposed skin in as little as 10 to 30 minutes. The coldest conditions are expected late Friday night through early Sunday morning.
Major travel corridors including Interstate 95, Interstate 81, Interstate 70, and Interstate 66 are expected to be impacted by bitter wind chills and gusty winds. While widespread snowfall is not the primary concern, blowing winds and extreme cold could affect vehicle reliability and roadside safety, especially overnight.
Extreme Cold Warnings are in effect for portions of western Maryland and the Allegheny Highlands, while surrounding areas including Baltimore, Washington, and Northern Virginia are under Cold Weather Advisories. Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and check on vulnerable populations.
The National Weather Service also warns of increased strain on heating systems and the potential for frozen pipes as temperatures remain well below seasonal averages.
This cold outbreak may be especially impactful for commuters, outdoor workers, students, and unhoused populations traveling along regional roadways late Friday and over the weekend.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and alerts at weather.gov as conditions evolve.
