Baltimore, Maryland — Freezing temperatures continue to dominate much of Maryland as residents brace for another round of winter cold, increasing cloud cover, and occasional chances of light snow through the first weekend of the new year.
While no major winter storm is expected at this time, forecasters warn that even small snow showers could create slick and hazardous conditions, especially during overnight and early morning hours.
Meteorologists say a series of weak storm systems will pass through the region over the next few days, keeping winter firmly in place and raising the potential for flurries and light snow at times.
Below-freezing temperatures persist across the region
Temperatures across central and northern Maryland remain below freezing as clouds gradually thicken later this afternoon and into the evening. Daytime highs have struggled to climb out of the low to mid-30s, while overnight lows dip well below freezing, setting the stage for any precipitation to quickly freeze on contact.
Cold air entrenched across the Mid-Atlantic means that even minimal snowfall could have outsized impacts, particularly on untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges.
Flurries and light snow possible early Friday
Another weak storm system is expected to slide into Maryland overnight, bringing with it the chance for scattered flurries or light snow showers, particularly late tonight through early Friday morning.
Forecasters say snow chances will be highest through 6 a.m. Friday, with the greatest potential for a light dusting across northern Carroll County, Baltimore County, and Harford County. While widespread accumulation is not expected, temperatures will be cold enough for snow to stick, even if only briefly.
Key detail: Even a thin dusting could make roads and sidewalks slippery, especially during the Friday morning commute.
Residents are urged to use extra caution if snow begins falling while traveling, as icy patches may not be immediately visible.
Why even light snow could be an issue
With ground temperatures already cold, any flurries or snow showers could freeze on contact, leading to slick conditions despite the lack of significant accumulation. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are especially vulnerable.
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Officials often stress that light snow events can sometimes be more dangerous than heavier storms, as drivers may underestimate the risk.
Winter chill continues into the weekend
Looking ahead, winter cold will remain firmly in place through the weekend, with no major warm-up expected. Forecast models indicate a mix of clouds and occasional sunshine, keeping daytime highs in the mid to upper 30s on both Saturday and Sunday.
Overnight temperatures are expected to drop back into the 20s, reinforcing the risk for icy conditions during early morning hours.
Despite the cold, current projections suggest much of the weekend will stay mainly dry — though that could change.
Watching a weekend storm system closely
Meteorologists are monitoring another storm system passing through the eastern United States this weekend. At present, the system appears likely to track just south of Maryland, which would keep most areas dry.
However, forecasters caution that even a small shift northward could introduce wintry weather into the region, especially for southern portions of the state.
Some models suggest light snow may be possible late Saturday into early Sunday, particularly south of Route 50, if the storm edges closer than expected.
Forecast uncertainty remains
While confidence is growing that Maryland will avoid a significant snow event this weekend, weather experts emphasize that winter storm tracks can shift quickly, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours of arrival.
This is why meteorologists continue to describe the weekend outlook as low confidence, especially regarding light snow potential in southern Maryland.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated through trusted local weather sources as the forecast evolves.
What residents should do now
Even without a major storm, officials recommend taking a few simple precautions:
- Drive carefully, especially during early mornings and late nights
- Watch for black ice on bridges and secondary roads
- Dress in layers to protect against prolonged cold exposure
- Monitor local weather updates in case snow chances increase
Small winter weather events can still disrupt travel and daily routines when temperatures remain this low.
A cautious start to the new year
As Maryland heads into the first weekend of the new year, winter conditions remain the dominant theme. While snow chances appear limited, the combination of persistent cold and occasional flurries means residents should remain alert.
Forecasters say the pattern favors on-and-off winter weather rather than a single major storm — a setup that can keep road conditions unpredictable.
Have you noticed icy roads or flurries in your area yet? Share what you’re seeing in the comments and let others know how conditions look where you live.
