Baltimore, Maryland — Wet weather is arriving just as the weekend begins across much of Maryland, bringing steady rain, cooler temperatures, and disrupted outdoor plans before a sharp return to winter-like cold settles in by Sunday. Meteorologists say the first half of the weekend will feel damp and chilly, while the second half will be dominated by strong winds and falling temperatures.
Widespread rain moves through the region, impacting travel, outdoor events, and weekend plans.
Rain arrives as weekend begins
Forecasters say conditions will remain mostly dry through Friday morning, offering a brief window of calm before rain chances increase later in the day. By Friday afternoon, showers are expected to develop from southwest to northeast, spreading across central and eastern Maryland.
Temperatures will briefly warm into the low to mid-50s, allowing rain — not snow — to fall across most areas. Scattered showers are expected through early evening before a short break later Friday night.
“The chance of rain increases Friday afternoon, with scattered showers expected through the evening ahead of steadier rainfall overnight,” forecasters said.
Overnight temperatures will cool from the 40s into the 30s, creating a chilly but manageable night for those with evening plans.
Saturday marked as First Alert Weather Day
Saturday is shaping up to be the wettest day of the weekend, prompting weather officials to issue a First Alert Weather Day as a heads-up for residents.
Rain is expected to become widespread and steady early Saturday, continuing through much of the day before tapering off by late afternoon or early evening.
Rainfall totals are forecast to range between 0.5 inches for most areas, with up to one inch possible in isolated locations where heavier downpours occur.
Key impacts expected Saturday include:
- Steady rain during much of the day
- Cool, damp conditions
- Slower travel on area roadways
- Potential disruptions to outdoor events
“This rain is much needed and will help wash away remaining salt treatments from last month’s early winter weather,” forecasters noted.
Despite the wet conditions, officials say the rainfall will be beneficial for the region, helping replenish moisture levels and improve road and sidewalk conditions.
Brief drying trend late Saturday
Rain is expected to transition from steady precipitation Saturday morning to scattered showers by the afternoon, with drier conditions slowly returning later in the day.
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While Saturday evening may still feel cool and damp, widespread rainfall should largely come to an end, allowing some weekend plans to resume.
Winter cold surges back Sunday
The second half of the weekend will feel dramatically different as winter temperatures return on Sunday. Cold air sweeping in from the northwest will push daytime highs down into the low to mid-40s, even under a mix of sun and clouds.
Strong winds will be the main concern.
Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are expected across much of Maryland, with gusts up to 50 mph possible in higher elevations.
When combined with the cold air, feels-like temperatures could drop into the 20s by Sunday evening in some locations.
“Factoring in the stronger winds, it will feel much colder than the actual temperature,” forecasters warned.
Residents are urged to dress in layers and secure loose outdoor items ahead of the gusty conditions.
Mountain snow returns in western Maryland
While most of central and eastern Maryland will stay dry Sunday, mountain snow showers are likely in western parts of the state.
Garrett County could see snow showers Sunday afternoon through Monday morning, as colder air moves across higher elevations.
Travelers heading west are advised to monitor conditions closely, as brief periods of reduced visibility and slick roads may develop.
Looking ahead to colder January pattern
Meteorologists say the broader weather pattern favors continued cold and potentially wintry conditions as January progresses. While no major storms are currently locked in, temperatures are expected to remain below average, with additional chances for winter weather possible.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware, especially with changing conditions that could impact travel and daily routines.
How is the shifting weekend weather affecting your plans? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
