​Maryland Department of Emergency Management ​MdReady

Emergency Alerts

​​​​​Cold Temperatures and Snow Expected Across Maryland

Dangerously cold conditions will be impacting Maryland beginning late tonight through Sunday morning, with Saturday, February 7 being most impactful. Light snow could affect roads and evening commutes on Friday, Feb. 6. Residents are urged to take steps now to stay safe and warm.​

What to Expect:

  • ​​Most of Maryland is in an Extreme Cold Warning or Cold Weather Advisory.   

  • Daytime temperatures are expected to remain in the 20s.

  • Wind chills will drop below zero for most of the state, -20 to -30 for western locations and negative single digits to -15 for the rest of the state.
  • Strong wind gusts in excess of 40-50 mph are expected once the front passes until late Sunday.
  • In these conditions, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, and prolonged exposure can quickly lead to hypothermia, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions, and individuals with mobility limitations or other conditions that affect circulation, temperature regulation, or awareness of cold exposure.
  • **These are life-threatening conditions for anyone stranded/trapped outside.**​


​​Actions to Take:

  1. Plan for cold exposure:

  • Limit time outdoors and dress in layers, including hats and gloves.

  • Bring pets indoors and ensure livestock have shelter from wind and cold.

  • Know where to go if you need warmth: Monitor local announcements for warming centers or shelter information.

  1. Prepare Your Home for Extreme Cold

  • Protect pipes:

    • Insulate exposed pipes and allow indoor faucets to drip slightly during the coldest nights to reduce the risk of freezing.

  • Use heating sources safely:

    • Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable and never leave them unattended.

    • Never use ovens, grills, or outdoor heaters to heat your home.

  • Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

    • Ensure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries.

  • Maintain adequate heat:

    • Set thermostats consistently day and night to help prevent frozen pipes.

  • Plan for wind-driven cold:

    • Close gaps around windows and doors to reduce drafts and heat loss.

  1. Travel with caution:

  • Snow and icy patches may slow travel—slow down and allow extra time.

  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets and a flashlight.


Please be a good neighbor and look in on older adults, neighbors, and anyone without reliable heat.
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Additional Information

Additional cold weather resources and information on warming centers are available through the Maryland Department of Health’s

Office of Preparedness & Response at https://health.maryland.gov/preparedness/Pages/resources_cold.aspx


MDEM will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as needed.

Stay alert by following updates from your local emergency management office, NOAA/NWS forecasts, local media, and official briefings for updated information and possible watches or warnings.

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