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Published on January 21, 2025
Baltimore Battens Down as Arctic Blast Brings Dangerous Chill and Snow ShowersSource: en:User:Steelplug, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Baltimore may have its microclimates, but it's certainly not facing the blast of arctic air gripping parts of the East Coast. According to the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC, Baltimore is in the clutches of arctic high pressure, which will dictate the weather with "well below normal temperatures and dangerously cold wind chills" at least through midweek.

Residents are bundling up against highs merely in the teens and 20s and lows in the single digits or even below zero in the mountains. Moreover, a pressure surge is expected to refresh the winds tonight, dropping wind chills to near zero or below across much of the area and plunging to -10s and -20s in the mountain regions. Various Cold Weather Advisories and Extreme Cold Warnings have been issued in light of these conditions, effective through Thursday morning.

Baltimoreans are not alone in their concerns about the cold. Flurries or scattered snow showers could also occur on Tuesday, particularly in the afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service cautioned that "even a quick coating or inch could become impactful for those traveling," especially given the potential to coincide with the evening commute.

As the week progresses, while the bitter hold of cold remains firm, the region is afforded some respite as temperatures are expected to gradually climb on Thursday, thanks to a southerly wind shift. The forecast suggests a continuation of below-average temperatures through Saturday night but without significant marine hazards. There's the chance for some flurries Friday in the Appalachians, though by Sunday, things could take a turn with a potential front moving through, which may—or may not—bring some light wintry mix or snow showers to the area.

Regarding aviation and marine considerations, VFR conditions should prevail, with only possible brief MVFR conditions due to snow showers on Tuesday and some gusty winds on Wednesday morning. A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect early Tuesday but will likely lift as the day progresses. No significant hazards are expected for mariners Friday through Saturday night.