Maryland – Cold air grips the region this morning, hardening pavement and leaving car windshields frosted across the Baltimore–Washington corridor. The sky looks quiet now, but winter remains firmly in control as the first weekend of 2026 approaches. Even small changes could bring outsized impacts for travel.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures start near the upper 20s early, then recover into the upper 30s and near 40 by afternoon. Winds stay light, helping conditions feel calmer. Tonight turns cold again, setting the stage for a mostly gray Saturday with highs stuck in the upper 30s.
By Saturday night, attention turns to a slight chance of snow. While accumulation looks minimal, even brief snow can create slick spots on untreated roads. I-95, I-395, and the Capital Beltway could see reduced traction late Saturday night into early Sunday. Bridges and overpasses remain especially vulnerable.
Sunday delivers a payoff. Sunshine returns, winds pick up, and highs climb back to around 40. Gusts may reach near 20 mph, adding a sharp edge to the cold but helping dry roadways quickly. Conditions improve for daytime travel, though temperatures fall again after sunset.
Looking ahead, clouds linger into early next week with gradual warming. Highs push into the 40s and near 50 by Tuesday, easing the worst of the cold snap. Still, early January patterns favor quick changes, and additional winter systems remain possible.
Plan slower travel late Saturday night. Watch shaded roads for refreezing. Winter may look quiet, but it is far from done.
Seeing slick spots where you are? Share what conditions look like near you.
Five Day Outlook for Baltimore–Washington Region
Today: Decreasing clouds, high near 40°F
Saturday: Cloudy, high near 37°F
Sunday: Sunny, high near 40°F
Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 40°F
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 50°F
