BALTIMORE — Maryland residents should prepare for a chilly Thursday followed by a weekend arctic blast bringing dangerously cold temperatures. Gusty northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph, will keep the air brisk throughout the day. Highs will reach the mid-40s under partly sunny skies, though the wind will make it feel much colder.
Friday Preview: Sprinkles, Flurries Possible
Clouds will increase tonight, with temperatures dropping into the upper 20s and lower 30s. By Friday morning, sprinkles and flurries may move into the area as a disturbance sweeps through. While northeastern Maryland has the best chance of seeing light snow showers, the entire region could experience sprinkles or flurries. Ground temperatures remain too warm for accumulation on paved surfaces, but grassy areas in northeastern Maryland might see a light dusting.
First Alert Weather Days Issued
The WJZ First Alert Weather Team has declared First Alert Weather Days for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday due to expected numbing cold and dangerous wind chills. Temperatures will plunge into the upper 20s Friday night, setting the stage for a bitterly cold weekend.
Saturday: Coldest Day of the Weekend
Saturday will be the harshest day, with gusty winds up to 35 mph under mostly cloudy skies. Wind chills will range from the lower 20s in the morning to the upper teens by the afternoon. If you’re heading to the Ravens game Saturday at 4:30 PM, be prepared for a frigid experience, as feels-like temperatures will hover around the teens.
Sunday and Monday: Deep Freeze Continues
The brutal cold will persist into Sunday, despite abundant sunshine. Highs will only reach around 30°F, with wind chills remaining in the teens. Winds will be less aggressive than Saturday but still biting.
Sunday night into Monday morning will mark the coldest stretch, with lows dipping into the lower to mid-teens and wind chills plunging into the single digits. Highs on Monday will struggle to reach the freezing mark under increasingly cloudy skies.
Holiday Weather Outlook
Christmas Eve on Tuesday looks cold and cloudy, with a chance of late-day rain or snow showers. Christmas Day will remain overcast and chilly, with highs in the lower 40s and potential light rain or showers.
Stay Safe and Prepare
Residents are urged to dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and bring pets inside during this cold spell. Take breaks indoors if attending outdoor events like Ravens tailgating and the game on Saturday. Stay tuned to WJZ First Alert Weather Team for updates as the arctic blast approaches.