A sharp pattern change is set to impact the Delmarva region early this week, bringing a return to much cooler, below-normal temperatures along with the potential for widespread frost and freezing conditions.
Following the recent stretch of record warmth, a cold airmass will settle into the region Sunday night into Monday. While temperatures will drop into the 30s overnight, lingering northwest winds are expected to stay elevated enough to limit widespread frost formation initially. However, the bigger concern arrives Monday night into early Tuesday morning, when high pressure builds overhead, winds diminish, and optimal radiational cooling conditions develop.
By daybreak Tuesday, temperatures across Delmarva are expected to fall into the mid 30s, creating a strong likelihood for widespread frost and potentially damaging freeze conditions. This could pose a risk to sensitive vegetation and early-season crops, especially given that the growing season is now active across much of the region.
Monday itself will feel dramatically different compared to the recent warmth, with afternoon highs only reaching the mid 40s to mid 50s, roughly 10 to 15 degrees below average for mid-April. Gusty northwest winds up to 30 mph will add to the chill, making it feel even colder throughout the day.
Conditions begin to improve by Tuesday afternoon as temperatures rebound into the mid 50s to low 60s under gradually moderating conditions. By Tuesday night, lows are expected to remain in the 40s, effectively ending the frost and freeze threat.
Looking ahead, a warming trend will continue through the middle and latter part of the week, with temperatures returning to near or slightly above normal levels and limited chances for precipitation across the Delmarva region.
