Extreme Cold Grips Washington, DC Area

Wind chills as low as -15°F expected along I-395 on Saturday

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued urgent cold weather warnings for the Baltimore-Washington region, with wind chills forecast to plummet to dangerous levels of -5°F to -15°F on Saturday, and even reaching -20°F to -30°F in higher elevations. Residents are advised to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and check on vulnerable neighbors due to the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

Why it matters

Extreme cold weather can pose serious health risks, especially for the homeless, outdoor workers, and those stranded in vehicles. The bitterly cold temperatures and gusty winds along major transportation corridors like I-395 could create hazardous conditions for travelers.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the coldest conditions are expected from Saturday morning through late Saturday night, with wind chills of -5°F to -15°F across the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metro areas. In higher elevations west of the Blue Ridge, wind chills could plummet to -20°F to -30°F, creating dangerous exposure conditions. Frostbite and hypothermia may occur in as little as 30 minutes for anyone outdoors without proper protection.

  • The extreme cold is expected from Saturday morning through late Saturday night.
  • The coldest conditions are likely to occur during the overnight hours on Saturday.

The players

National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington

The regional office of the National Weather Service that issued the urgent cold weather warnings for the Baltimore-Washington area.

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What they’re saying

“The National Weather Service warns that frostbite and hypothermia may occur in as little as 30 minutes for anyone outdoors without sufficient protection.”

— National Weather Service (countryherald.com)

What’s next

Residents are urged to closely monitor local weather updates at weather.gov/lwx, as warnings and advisories may be adjusted based on evolving conditions.

The takeaway

This extreme cold weather event highlights the importance of being prepared for hazardous winter conditions, especially for vulnerable populations and those traveling on major roadways. Staying informed, dressing appropriately, and checking on neighbors can help keep the community safe during these dangerously cold temperatures.