Baltimore, Maryland — Winter officially arrived in Maryland over the weekend with the Winter Solstice, and while the calendar now says winter, the weather has already been delivering seasonable cold across much of the state. Residents should prepare for a chilly start to the week, followed by a brief chance of mixed precipitation as a fast-moving system passes through late Monday night into Tuesday.
Cold but quiet start to the week
Monday begins on a calm but cold note. Early morning temperatures will dip into the upper teens and low 20s, especially across inland and rural communities. High clouds will drift overhead, but conditions will remain dry through most of the day.
Despite the cold start, temperatures will recover modestly by the afternoon. Most areas are expected to reach the low to mid-40s by mid-afternoon, which is slightly below seasonal averages. Sunshine will dominate through midday before clouds increase later in the day as the next system approaches from the west.
Wintry mix possible early Tuesday
Attention then turns to Monday night and early Tuesday morning. A fast-moving storm system is expected to move into the region, bringing scattered light precipitation from late Monday evening through sunrise Tuesday.
Forecasters say precipitation may begin as snow or sleet in some locations, particularly during the overnight hours, before transitioning to a cold rain as slightly warmer air moves in. However, temperatures are expected to remain above freezing in most areas, limiting the risk for accumulation.
Coverage will be hit-or-miss, and any precipitation that does fall is expected to be light and short-lived. At this time, no significant wintry accumulation is expected across Maryland, and impacts should remain minimal for most commuters.
Farther north, conditions are more favorable for winter weather. Pennsylvania has a higher chance of seeing accumulating snow, especially in northern and elevated areas closer to the storm’s core.
Lingering clouds and gradual warming
By Tuesday afternoon, lingering light rain showers may persist as temperatures climb back into the mid to upper 40s. While skies will remain mostly cloudy, the threat of wintry weather should be over by that point.
Looking ahead, a gradual warming trend is expected as the region moves toward the Christmas holiday and the first day of Kwanzaa. Temperatures could approach 60 degrees by Friday, well above normal for late December.
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This warming trend will come with more clouds than sunshine and occasional rounds of scattered rain throughout the week. While no major storms are currently expected, the unsettled pattern may keep conditions damp at times.
Looking beyond the holidays
Forecast models suggest another shift toward cooler conditions next weekend, followed by a more noticeable temperature change heading into the days leading up to the New Year. Residents are encouraged to stay updated as forecasts continue to evolve.
For the latest local updates and advisories, residents should monitor forecasts from the National Weather Service.
Have you noticed winter arriving early where you live, or are you still waiting for real cold to set in? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
