Maryland Braces for Arctic Blast After Snow Showers Hit Region

BALTIMORE, Md. — Maryland residents faced a frigid start to the week as snow showers swept through the region Thursday evening, leaving a light dusting in some areas and setting the stage for an arctic blast expected early next week. Meteorologists warn of the coldest temperatures in seven years, with wind chills dipping into single digits.

Scattered snow showers began around 6 p.m. Thursday, primarily affecting areas north and west of Baltimore. Accumulations ranged from a trace to half an inch, with up to an inch reported in northern counties. The snow ended by 10 p.m., leaving clear skies but lingering cold, with overnight temperatures in the upper 20s.

“This is just the beginning of a significant cold snap,” said Meteorologist Tom Tasselmyer of WBAL-TV. “We’re looking at the coldest air of the season, possibly the coldest since 2018, arriving early next week.”

Friday and Saturday will bring a brief reprieve, with temperatures climbing into the 40s and scattered rain showers expected Saturday morning. However, a storm system moving in Sunday will drop temperatures again, bringing snow accumulations of a few inches and highs in the mid-30s.

By Monday, temperatures will plummet, with highs in the low 20s and wind chills in the single digits. Morning lows will hover near zero, marking the coldest stretch of weather in recent memory. The arctic air is expected to persist through Wednesday, prompting concerns about power outages and hazardous conditions.

Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) urged residents to prepare for potential outages caused by falling tree limbs and icy conditions. “Fallen power lines should never be approached,” a BGE spokesperson said. “Report outages immediately through our app, website, or by calling 877-778-2222.”

Local school districts in Baltimore, Cecil, and Harford counties canceled afterschool activities Thursday due to the weather. Officials are monitoring conditions ahead of next week’s extreme cold, which could impact school schedules and transportation.

Residents are advised to bundle up and limit outdoor exposure, especially during the early morning hours when wind chills will be most severe. The WBAL-TV Weather Team has designated next week as an “Impact Weather” period, urging caution and preparedness.