Annapolis Braces for 'Polar Vortex' to Arrive Late Sunday

The National Weather Service has issued a “Hazardous Weather Outlook” for the central region of Maryland, including Annapolis, over the next six days, with subfreezing temperatures returning on Sunday and predicted temperatures as low as 6°F on Tuesday.

Today, January 16, there is a chance of snowfall in the evening, potentially impacting commuters. With temperatures hovering around the freezing mark, and dipping into the 20s overnight, there is a significant chance for black ice on roadways - especially on bridges and overpasses both tonight and early Friday morning. 

Expect a slight warmup Friday and Saturday (Jan. 16-17) with highs in the 40s. There is a 50 percent chance of rain early Saturday with gusty winds (to 22MPH) throughout the day. On Sunday, colder temperatures will arrive and may bring scattered snow mixed with freezing rain in the afternoon (minimal accumulation is expected). The area will see temperatures plummet on Sunday evening, with an overnight low of 16°F. 

Please note: the weekend precipitation may leave standing pools of water that will not melt until after Sunday due to the extreme cold. These conditions are expected to persist for at least four days. 

Salt and snow melt, which are the main tools the Annapolis Department of Public Works uses during winter storms, are largely ineffective at temperatures below 22°F. The ice will create hazardous conditions for drivers on roadways and pedestrians on sidewalks and walkways. Residents are urged to exercise caution, especially on untreated surfaces, and to remain vigilant for black ice. 

The National Weather Service seven-day forecast for Annapolis will remain in a deep freeze weather pattern at least through Thursday (Jan. 23). We could see negative windchill values. A slight warm-up is predicted by next weekend. 

Water Main Breaks: With the expected cold temperatures, there is a threat of water main breaks. If you see water flowing or bubbling out of the street, it could be a water main break. Report immediately to 410-263-7970, during regular hours (8:30 am to 4:30 pm); after hours, weekends, or on holidays, use the 24-hour line, 410-224-2140.

Warming Center: To ensure the safety and warmth of our community, the City of Annapolis will open the warming center at Stanton Center, located at 92 W. Washington Street. At this time, the warming center will open at the following times:

• Saturday, January 18th, 2025, at 7:00 pm until Sunday morning at 7:00 am

• Sunday, January 19th, 2025, at 7:00 pm through Tuesday morning at 7:00 am (36 hours of continuous operations) 

• Tuesday, January 21st, 2025, at 7:00 pm until Wednesday morning at 7:00 am

• Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025, 2025 at 7:00 pm until Thursday morning at 7:00 am

Tips for Staying Safe During the Deep Freeze

• Avoid unnecessary travel and use extra caution if you must drive or walk outdoors.

• Dress in layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite.

• Keep a small emergency kit in your car, including blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable snacks.

• Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors to ensure they have adequate heat and supplies.

• Protect your pipes by allowing faucets to drip slightly and keeping cabinet doors open to circulate warm air.

• Know the signs of frostbite: pain, numbness or pins and needles, blisters, and a change in skin color.

• Know the symptoms of hypothermia: shivering, numbness, glassy stare, impaired judgment, loss of consciousness. If body temperature is below 95°F, the individual should seek immediate medical care. 

• Pets: Limit outdoor time for dogs and cats. Check dog paws after spending time outdoors for snow, ice, or salt that can get stuck in paw pads and cause irritation or cold-weather injury. 

City Offices Closed on Monday:  City offices are closed Monday,  January 20, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Stay safe and stay warm, Annapolis!