Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Delaware Brace for Bitter Monday Morning as Single-Digit and Subzero Lows Spread Across the Region
WASHINGTON — A sharp Arctic cold snap is setting the stage for a bitterly cold Monday morning across much of the Mid-Atlantic, with widespread single-digit and teen lows and even a few subzero readings expected in colder inland locations. Forecasters say this morning has a real chance of being the coldest of the remaining winter, especially as the overall pattern begins to moderate later this month.
The coldest readings are expected around sunrise, following a night of strong radiational cooling under clear skies and light winds.
Single Digits And Subzero Lows Target Inland Areas
Temperature maps show western Virginia and West Virginia bearing the brunt of the cold, with lows dipping to 0 to -4 degrees in mountain valleys and sheltered locations. Surrounding inland areas across northern and central Virginia are expected to fall into the single digits, with many communities waking up between 5 and 9 degrees.
Across Maryland, inland counties are forecast to see lows generally between 7 and 12 degrees, while locations closer to the Chesapeake Bay remain slightly milder due to water influence.
Cold Weather Advisory In Effect For Overnight Hours
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from 10 p.m. through 10 a.m., highlighting the risk of cold-related exposure. While winds are expected to be lighter than recent nights — reducing wind chill severity — the raw air temperature alone will be dangerous for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Officials urge residents to protect pets, cover exposed pipes, and limit early-morning travel where icy patches may develop.
Coastal Areas Stay Milder, But Still Frigid
Communities along the Maryland Eastern Shore and Delaware are expected to remain above the coldest inland readings, but still face teens to lower 20s early Monday. Locations near Annapolis, Salisbury, Dover, and coastal Delaware benefit from nearby water but will still experience one of the colder mornings of the season.
Even in these areas, temperatures will feel notably colder than recent mornings.
Gradual Warming Trend Begins This Week
Despite the harsh start to the week, forecasters say gradual moderation is on the way. Afternoon highs will slowly climb through the 30s midweek, with 40s returning by late week across much of the region.
Looking ahead, next week is expected to run warmer than normal, significantly reducing the chances of another morning this cold before winter ends.
Why This May Be The Coldest Morning Left This Winter
Late-season Arctic outbreaks become increasingly rare as February progresses. While it is still possible for late February or March to deliver brief cold shots, readings this low typically require a perfectly aligned setup — something that becomes less common as daylight increases.
That’s why meteorologists say Monday morning stands out as a strong candidate for the coldest low of the season for many Mid-Atlantic communities.
As residents across Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Delaware endure this final blast of deep winter cold, the broader trend points toward a slow but steady thaw. For continued updates on cold weather advisories, temperature trends, and how changing conditions may impact local events and travel, visit Cabarrusweekly.com for the latest weather coverage.
