Baltimore, MD – Maryland is settling into a deeper winter pattern as an extended surge of Arctic air takes hold next week. Temperatures across the Mid-Atlantic are expected to stay below seasonal norms from December 9 through December 15, according to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s latest 8–14 Day Outlook released on December 1.
Overview of the Upcoming Weather Pattern
Maryland’s early December chill will not let up. Forecast models show persistent cold air lingering over the region, keeping daytime highs in the 30s to low 40s and nighttime temperatures dipping into the 20s, especially across inland areas. Cities such as Baltimore, Frederick, and Hagerstown will begin the week with frosty mornings and could experience patchy flurries as moisture moves in midweek.
The NOAA long-range outlook indicates that Maryland will also face above-normal precipitation during this period. That combination of cold air and higher moisture increases the potential for light snow, rain-snow mixes, and scattered showers, particularly north and west of Interstate 95.
What Different Parts of Maryland Can Expect
Baltimore Metro
The Baltimore region will stay cold and breezy throughout the week. Forecasters expect mostly cloudy skies with intermittent chances for light rain or flurries from a weak coastal disturbance moving up the Atlantic.
Western Maryland & Appalachian Areas
Higher elevations west of the state — including Garrett County and portions of Allegany County — are positioned to see the greatest impact. Temperatures there will remain firmly in the 20s and 30s, giving these areas the best chance of picking up light snow accumulations, depending on how the midweek system develops.
Central & Northern Maryland
Frederick and Hagerstown will see frosty starts to the day, with the potential for brief periods of snow showers. Accumulations are not expected to be significant, but travel could become slick at times, especially overnight or early morning.
Southern & Coastal Maryland
Annapolis, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore — including Ocean City — will remain mostly cold and wet. These areas are more likely to experience rain or a rain-snow mix, with minimal snow sticking to surfaces due to higher coastal temperatures.
National Weather Contrast
While Maryland braces for a week of steady cold, the national weather map shows a different story out west. Much of the West Coast, Southwest, and Texas will trend warmer and drier than usual, creating a sharp temperature divide across the country. The contrast underscores how strongly Arctic air is anchoring itself in the eastern half of the U.S.
Mid-December Outlook and What Comes Next
Forecasters expect the wintry feel to linger across Maryland through mid-December, with only brief breaks from the chill. Any small warm-ups later in the month are expected to be short-lived. Meteorologists say additional cold pushes are likely before the Christmas holiday, keeping the region locked in a winter-ready pattern.
Tips to Stay Prepared During Extended Cold Spells
As Maryland experiences more frequent blasts of polar air, residents can reduce risks by staying proactive.
Protect your pipes by insulating exposed plumbing, check heating systems early, ensure pets have warm shelter, and monitor local forecasts for any sudden changes in weather conditions.
Conclusion
Maryland is entering a sustained stretch of Arctic-influenced weather that will dominate the state from December 9–15. With temperatures staying below normal, higher chances of precipitation, and periodic flurries possible across central and western areas, the week ahead will feel distinctly winterlike. Short warm-ups later this month are unlikely to last long as additional cold air prepares to move in ahead of the holidays.
If you live in Maryland, share how the early winter cold is affecting your area in the comments below.
