An Arctic air mass sweeping into Maryland and northern Virginia today will bring snow, freezing rain, and sub-zero wind chills by Monday. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Sunday, with snow accumulations expected between 2 and 4 inches across the region, including Baltimore and surrounding counties.
According to the National Weather Service, snow will spread throughout the area this morning before tapering off by evening. Road conditions on major highways such as I-95 and U.S. 50 are expected to deteriorate rapidly, with snowfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour. Temperatures will plunge into the teens tonight, with wind chills dropping below zero on Monday morning.
Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel and take precautions to protect pets, pipes, and outdoor property from the extreme cold. Gusty winds could also create drifting snow, reducing visibility for drivers.
The extended forecast shows frigid conditions continuing through midweek. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, highs will barely reach 23°F in Baltimore, with wind gusts up to 30 mph making it feel much colder. Tuesday will see a slight chance of snow flurries, followed by sunny but bitterly cold weather on Wednesday, with highs near 19°F.
Officials recommend checking local road conditions by calling 511 and staying informed via weather.gov. Prepare for delays and dress warmly as the region navigates this severe winter weather event.
