Arctic Grip Tightens: Snow and Bitter Cold Sweep Into Baltimore

Morning: A Bitter Start Under Cold Weather Advisories

Baltimore residents woke up to a frigid reality this Saturday, January 24, 2026. A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10:00 AM as temperatures hover around a bone-chilling 10°F. With the wind chill factor, it feels closer to -1°F or even -10°F in some areas of the city. Morning skies are expected to stay partly cloudy, but the biting cold is the primary concern for anyone heading out early. Experts recommend dressing in several layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and ensuring all extremities are covered to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

Afternoon: Increasing Clouds and Freezing Temperatures

As we move into the afternoon hours, the sun will become increasingly obscured by a thickening cloud deck. While the morning's intense wind chill will slightly subside, the high temperature for the day is expected to reach only 21°F to 23°F—well below the freezing mark. Winds will remain relatively light, shifting from the north at 5 to 10 mph. This period serves as the “calm before the storm,” with humidity levels rising to around 40% as the atmosphere prepares for the arrival of Winter Storm Fern, which has already begun impacting states to the west.

Evening and Night: Winter Storm Warning in Effect

The weather takes a dramatic turn late tonight. A National Weather Service Winter Storm Warning is scheduled to go into effect at 11:00 PM tonight and will remain active until early Monday morning. Snow is expected to begin mainly after midnight, with the potential to be heavy at times during the overnight hours. Early estimates suggest Baltimore could see between 3 to 5 inches of accumulation by Sunday morning, with significantly higher totals expected as the storm rages through the rest of the weekend. Winds will shift to the east-northeast, adding a raw, damp edge to the falling temperatures, which will dip to an overnight low of 17°F.

Emergency Preparations and Travel Alerts

In response to the severe forecast, Mayor Brandon M. Scott has officially declared a State of Emergency for Baltimore City. The Baltimore City Office of Emergency Management has activated the Emergency Operations Center to coordinate snow removal and emergency services. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel starting late Saturday night as road conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly. Key notices for the day include:

• Winter Storm Warning: Active from 11:00 PM Saturday through 4:00 AM Monday.
• Cold Weather Advisory: Remains in effect through 10:00 AM Saturday morning for extreme wind chills.
• Hazardous Travel: Untreated roads will become snow-packed and slippery after midnight.
• City Services: Emergency shelters have been opened, and residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors and pets.