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. While areas closer to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic coast may see slightly moderated temperatures at times, increasing winds behind the clipper system could lead to noticeably colder wind chills, especially during overnight and early morning hours.
Despite the colder air, snow and precipitation chances are expected to remain near normal for this time of year. Forecast guidance does not indicate a strong signal for widespread snowfall during the Jan. 18–22 window, as the Arctic air mass is expected to be relatively dry. Any precipitation that does develop would likely be light and brief, associated with fast-moving systems.
For Maryland commuters, students, and outdoor workers, the primary impacts during this period will be prolonged cold exposure and increased heating demand, rather than significant travel disruptions. Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates as temperature trends and wind impacts become more refined later this week.
