Baltimore, MD – Residents across Maryland and northern Virginia will wake up to a chilly morning on Friday, as a Frost Advisory takes effect for parts of the Washington, D.C. metro area and surrounding counties. Temperatures are expected to dip into the 30s, signaling the arrival of the region’s first widespread frost of the season.
The Weather Alert: Early Morning Frost Across the Mid-Atlantic
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), frost formation will be most likely between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m. Friday, especially in rural and low-lying areas stretching from Prince William County, VA, to Howard County, MD.
Forecasters are urging residents to cover sensitive plants, bring in potted vegetation, and protect exposed outdoor plumbing. Urban areas such as downtown Baltimore and Washington, D.C., will remain slightly warmer, hovering in the mid-40s, sparing most city neighborhoods from frost but not from a brisk morning chill.
“This is the kind of setup that often catches gardeners off guard,” said a meteorologist with the NWS Baltimore/Washington office. “Even light frost can cause damage to tender plants overnight.”
Forecast Details: Cool Start, Pleasant Finish
After the frosty morning, temperatures will rebound into the low 60s by midday under clear and sunny skies. Light northwest winds will help make the afternoon feel more comfortable, offering a welcome warm-up after the cold start.
Saturday’s forecast shows increasing clouds but little change in temperature, with highs near 61°F. Winds will remain light, making for good conditions for outdoor events or fall activities.
“We’re looking at a pleasant stretch of weather heading into the weekend,” forecasters noted. “Sunday looks to be the best day—partly sunny, breezy, and just a bit warmer.”
By Sunday, temperatures are expected to reach 60°F to 62°F, with a few more hours of sunshine to close out the weekend.
Regional Impacts and Precautions
The Frost Advisory primarily impacts suburban and rural zones west and north of the I-95 corridor, where temperatures will fall to 33°F–36°F early Friday morning. These areas often cool more quickly overnight due to lower elevation and less urban heat retention.
Homeowners should take precautions by:
- Covering or moving sensitive plants indoors.
- Draining outdoor hoses and protecting exposed faucets.
- Bringing pets indoors during the early morning hours.
Frost is not expected to cause significant travel impacts, but drivers may encounter light windshield frost during the early commute.
Looking Ahead: Mild Start to Next Week
After the frosty start to the weekend, the region will enter a milder pattern early next week. Monday will bring highs in the upper 50s, followed by a gradual rise into the low 60s by Tuesday.
However, rain chances are expected to return by Tuesday night and Wednesday, marking a shift back toward unsettled conditions.
“This brief cold snap isn’t severe, but it’s a reminder that late fall is here,” meteorologists said. “It’s time to prep your garden and gear up for cooler nights ahead.”
Background Context: Early Sign of Late-Fall Chill
While October frosts are not unusual for the Mid-Atlantic, this one serves as a clear marker that the transition to late fall is underway. With Halloween just a week away, forecasters say trick-or-treaters can expect cool, dry conditions if the current pattern holds steady.
Historically, the first frost for the D.C.–Baltimore corridor occurs between October 20 and October 28, placing this event right on schedule.
Conclusion
Friday’s frost alert will usher in the coldest morning so far this season, but residents can look forward to a sunny, mild weekend ahead. While the chill may be short-lived, it’s a reminder that winter’s approach is not far behind.
How are you preparing for the cold snap? Share your tips and thoughts in the comments below.
