Cold Weather Continues into the Weekend

Meteorologist warns of dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills across Maryland

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:15am

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Meteorologist Dalencia Jenkins reports that the cold weather will persist throughout the weekend in Maryland, with temperatures struggling to reach the 20s and wind chills dipping into the single digits. The polar bear plunge in Annapolis is expected to take place in the teens, with water temperatures around 33 degrees, making for a dangerously cold experience for participants.

Why it matters

The prolonged cold spell is causing concern for public safety, especially with outdoor events like the polar bear plunge taking place. The cold temperatures and high winds could pose risks to those not properly bundled up, and the cold water temperatures add an extra challenge for plunge participants.

The details

Temperatures across the region are expected to remain in the teens and low 20s throughout the day, with wind chills making it feel even colder. In Parkton, the actual temperature is 1 degree, but it feels like -1 with the wind chill. In Frederick and at BWI Marshall Airport, the temperatures are 3 and 9 degrees respectively, but the wind chills make it feel like -1 and -1 in those areas. In Annapolis, where the polar bear plunge is taking place, the temperature of 15 degrees feels more like 7 with the wind chill.

  • The polar bear plunge in Annapolis is scheduled to begin around 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • Temperatures are expected to remain in the teens and low 20s throughout the day on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • Wind chills are forecast to be in the single digits to teens throughout the day on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • The cold weather is expected to continue into Sunday, February 1, 2026, with wind gusts up to 40 mph.
  • Another chance of snow is possible on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

The players

Dalencia Jenkins

A meteorologist who is reporting on the cold weather conditions in Maryland.

Sandy Point State Park

The location of the polar bear plunge in Annapolis, Maryland.

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What they’re saying

“Make sure you bundle up if you're heading out and about.”

— Dalencia Jenkins, Meteorologist

“Hurry up and get out and bundle up quickly as it is going to be dangerously cold.”

— Dalencia Jenkins, Meteorologist

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This cold snap highlights the importance of being prepared for extreme winter weather, especially for outdoor events like the polar bear plunge. Residents should heed weather warnings, dress warmly, and take precautions to stay safe in the dangerously cold temperatures and high winds.