Baltimore, Maryland – Maryland is settling into a classic mid-December transition, with chilly mornings, increasing clouds, and a stretch of wet and windy weather lining up for the Baltimore metro area. While snow is not expected, shifting temperatures and gusty conditions could affect travel plans through the end of the workweek.
Early Wednesday begins on a cold note, with temperatures hovering near 31 degrees and a damp harbor breeze pushing across the city. Skies stay mostly gray, and although pavement appears dry, slick spots remain possible in shaded areas and on elevated roadways.
Morning Conditions and Commuter Impact
The morning commute starts quietly but cold. Bridges, ramps, and shaded stretches along I-95, I-83, and the Baltimore Beltway may hold onto overnight chill longer than surrounding roads. Drivers are urged to stay alert during early travel hours, especially before temperatures climb above freezing.
Clouds gradually thicken through the morning, signaling a weather shift later in the day. Despite the gray skies, conditions remain mostly dry until evening.
Brief Afternoon Improvement
By mid-afternoon, Baltimore sees a temporary improvement. Temperatures climb into the upper 40s, offering a short-lived break from the cold. Winds stay light, and visibility improves, making late-day errands and travel easier.
That calm window does not last long.
Rain Returns Thursday Afternoon and Night
Rain chances increase Thursday afternoon as a new system approaches from the west. Showers become more widespread by evening and continue overnight, soaking roads across central Maryland.
Reduced visibility and wet pavement could slow traffic during Thursday night travel. Commuters heading home late or traveling toward nearby suburbs should prepare for changing road conditions.
Friday Brings Wind and Lingering Rain
Rain lingers into Friday morning, and conditions turn breezy as colder air begins pushing in behind the system. Wind gusts may reach near 30 mph, especially along the Inner Harbor and other exposed areas.
Travel impacts may be most noticeable during peak hours. Wet roads combined with gusty winds can make driving difficult, particularly for high-profile vehicles. Extra caution is advised for travelers heading toward BWI Airport or southbound routes toward Washington, D.C.
Cold Air and Black Ice Risk Friday Night
As rain tapers off Friday afternoon and evening, temperatures fall quickly into the upper 20s. Any remaining moisture on untreated surfaces may refreeze overnight, creating a black ice risk into early Saturday morning.
Overpasses, entrance ramps, and side streets are especially vulnerable during rapid temperature drops. Even roads that appeared clear earlier may become hazardous after sunset.
Weekend Outlook: Cooler but Drier
Saturday turns noticeably cooler but brighter. Skies trend partly sunny, and daytime highs remain in the mid-40s, offering a calmer pattern for outdoor plans.
Sunday brings slight moderation, with highs edging into the low 50s, though mornings remain cold for early travelers and holiday shoppers.
While Baltimore avoids snow for now, forecasters note that winter patterns across the Midwest remain active, suggesting a more energetic setup could develop regionally as Christmas week approaches.
Five-Day Baltimore Weather Outlook
• Wednesday: Increasing clouds, high near 48°
• Thursday: Rain late, high near 46°
• Friday: Rain and breezy, high near 51°
• Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 45°
• Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 52°
What to Watch Moving Forward
This warm-to-cold swing is a typical early winter signal in Maryland. While snow stays out of the forecast for now, rapid temperature changes and lingering moisture increase the risk of icy conditions overnight.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts closely, especially if traveling early mornings or late evenings.
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