Annapolis, Maryland – A surge of Arctic air is expected to move into Maryland between Jan. 18 and Jan. 22, bringing a pronounced shift toward colder-than-normal temperatures as a clipper system reinforces a broader pattern change across the eastern United States.
According to the Climate Prediction Center’s 6–10 day temperature outlook, Maryland is favored to experience below-normal temperatures during this period as a deep upper-level trough settles over the East. The colder pattern follows the end of a recent mild stretch, driven by strong ridging across the western U.S. and Alaska that allows Arctic air to press southward.
Daytime high temperatures are expected to run several degrees below mid-January averages, with overnight lows falling more sharply across inland and western portions of the state. Areas closer to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic coast may see some temperature moderation at times, but increasing winds behind the clipper system could still lead to noticeably colder wind chills, particularly overnight and during early morning hours.
Through Jan. 22, precipitation chances are expected to remain near normal for this time of year, with no strong signal for widespread snow during the core cold window. The incoming Arctic air mass is expected to be relatively dry, limiting snowfall unless additional moisture becomes available.
Looking beyond this period, forecast guidance indicates a 20% to 40% risk of heavy snow sometime during the Jan. 20–26 timeframe for portions of the Appalachian region, which includes western Maryland. While confidence in exact timing and placement remains low, the colder pattern could support more impactful snowfall if storm systems track favorably.
For Maryland commuters, students, and outdoor workers, the primary concern through Jan. 22 remains prolonged cold exposure, with closer monitoring advised for potential snow impacts later in the week.
