Dangerously Cold Winds and Icy Patches Impact Friday Morning Commute

Morning Outlook: Extreme Cold and Lingering Ice

Baltimore commuters should prepare for a challenging drive this morning, Friday, January 30, 2026. While major highways have been cleared following the winter storm earlier this week, the primary hazard today is the record-breaking cold. With wind chills reaching dangerously low levels, the National Weather Service has warned of black ice formation on untreated secondary roads and overpasses. Because many area school districts, including Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County, are operating on virtual schedules or remain closed, morning rush hour volume may be lighter than usual, but travel times remain unpredictable due to icy patches.

Major Arteries and Highway Construction

Construction projects continue to affect traffic flow on Baltimore's primary loops and interstates. Drivers should note the following specific impacts:

• I-695 (Baltimore Beltway): The Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) project is active between I-70 and MD 43. Expect single-lane closures between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on the Inner Loop from US 40 to I-83. Crews are also performing median work near Stevenson Road, requiring motorists to stay alert for narrowed lanes and concrete barriers.
• I-95 Southbound: A major traffic split remains in effect at the MD 24 interchange (Exit 77) in Harford County. Traffic is divided with one lane to the left and three to the right to facilitate bridge construction. The work zone speed limit is strictly enforced at 55 mph.
• I-695 Sparrows Point: Ongoing work near the Peninsula Expressway underpass (Exit 42-44) continues to restrict the roadway to a single lane in some sections as part of the system preservation project.

MTA Service and Transit Alerts

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has issued several service alerts for Friday morning. While the MARC Train is operating on a full weekday schedule, several bus routes are navigating detours:

• Commuter Bus: Multiple alerts are in effect for Friday, particularly for routes serving the Columbia and Annapolis corridors. Commuters should verify their specific route status via the MTA mobile app.
• Local Bus Detours: Local Link Routes 77 and 78, along with the CityLink Purple line, are currently operating on temporary detours due to road conditions and localized utility work.
• Transit Equity Day: MTA has announced free rides on all local bus, Light Rail, and Metro Subway services today in honor of Transit Equity Day.

Commuter Safety Recommendations

Due to the sub-zero wind chills, the Baltimore City Health Department has extended the Cold Blue declaration through Sunday. Motorists are advised to keep an emergency kit in their vehicles, including blankets and extra warm clothing. Allow for significant extra time to defrost vehicles and drive with caution on ramps and bridges where black ice is most likely to persist despite plowing efforts.