Maryland – Headlights cut through faint flakes this New Year’s Eve morning as cold air clings to the region, setting up a tricky start for commuters across central Maryland and the Washington metro. Pavement looks merely wet in spots, but temperatures near freezing leave little margin for error.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a Special Weather Statement remains in effect due to the potential for hazardous winter commuting conditions. Light snow has been possible early, with a light coating on untreated roads across the Baltimore and Washington areas, as well as northeast and southern Maryland.
Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Bowie all sit in the zone of concern. Snow amounts stay minor, but timing matters. Even brief snow during the morning commute can quickly turn bridges, ramps, and overpasses slick. Drivers along I-95, I-83, the Baltimore Beltway, and Route 50 should expect isolated icy patches, especially before mid-morning.
Farther south into Northern Virginia and the District, flurries taper quickly, but cold air holds firm. Temperatures hover near the upper 20s to low 30s early, allowing any melted snow to refreeze. Transit delays and slower traffic speeds remain possible if conditions deteriorate briefly.
Skies gradually brighten later today, helping roads improve. New Year’s Day turns colder but mostly dry, with highs near the low 30s and a few lingering flurries possible early. Friday brings sunshine and slightly milder air, easing travel concerns heading into the first weekend of 2026.
Still, winter isn’t finished. Cold nights through the weekend keep black ice a concern during early mornings, even as afternoons improve. Plan extra time today, slow down on shaded roads, and stay alert for changing conditions.
How did your commute look this morning? Share what you’re seeing on the roads.
Five-Day Outlook for the Baltimore–DC Area
- Today (New Year’s Eve): Early light snow or flurries; high near 39°F
- New Year’s Day: Mostly sunny, cold; high near 33°F
- Friday: Partly sunny; high near 40°F
- Saturday: Partly sunny; high near 40°F
- Sunday: Mostly sunny; high near 40°F
