Baltimore, Maryland — Maryland residents are being urged to prepare for accumulating snow and a sharp drop in temperatures this weekend, as a developing winter system brings slippery travel conditions followed by the coldest air of the season so far, forecasters say.
While the state will see quiet but cold weather through Friday night, conditions are expected to change late Saturday as a storm system moves in from the west. Meteorologists warn that snow accumulation is likely overnight Saturday into early Sunday, with lingering impacts expected into the start of the new week.
Cold and quiet conditions continue through Friday night
High pressure remains firmly in control through the end of the workweek, keeping weather conditions dry but chilly across Maryland.
Friday night is expected to be cold and calm, with overnight lows falling into the lower to mid-20s. Cloud cover will gradually increase overnight, but no precipitation is expected during this period.
Travel conditions will remain favorable, with dry roadways and minimal weather-related disruptions through early Saturday evening.
Saturday stays dry before weather deteriorates
Saturday daytime conditions look relatively uneventful, which is good news for outdoor events, including the Army–Navy football game. Skies will trend mostly cloudy to overcast, but precipitation should hold off through the afternoon.
High temperatures on Saturday are forecast to reach the lower to middle 40s, keeping conditions cold but manageable for travel and outdoor activities.
By Saturday evening, however, weather conditions are expected to change rapidly.
Rain and snow mix transitions to accumulating snow
Forecasters say a mix of rain and snow may begin Saturday evening before quickly transitioning to all snow overnight as colder air pushes into the region.
The snow is expected to start sometime between 10 p.m. Saturday and 5 a.m. Sunday, depending on location. While some areas may briefly see rain at the onset, temperatures will fall quickly enough for snow to stick to untreated surfaces.
Because the snow will fall during overnight hours, accumulation could develop rapidly on roads, sidewalks, and parking lots.
Snow totals vary across the state
Snowfall amounts will vary significantly depending on location.
Across central and eastern Maryland, including Baltimore, forecasters are calling for a general 1 to 3 inches of snow, with isolated areas receiving up to 4 inches where heavier snow bands develop.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Kent, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, and Talbot counties from 7 p.m. Saturday through 1 p.m. Sunday, where a few inches of snow and slippery travel are expected.
In western Maryland, conditions will be more severe. Garrett County, including areas near Wisp Ski Resort, is under a Winter Storm Warning from 1 p.m. Saturday through 4 p.m. Sunday. Forecasters expect 4 to 8 inches of snow, combined with wind gusts up to 35 mph, creating near-blizzard conditions at times.
Read Also: Early Winter Storms Raise the Question: Who Will See a White Christmas This Year?
Sunday morning travel expected to be hazardous
Snow is expected to end before sunrise Sunday, but impacts will linger well into the morning.
Travel conditions Sunday morning are expected to be messy and slippery, particularly on secondary roads and untreated surfaces. While main highways may improve quickly, drivers are urged to use caution during early-morning travel.
Officials warn that community activities, church services, and other events may be delayed or canceled due to road conditions.
Arctic blast follows the snow
As the snow system exits, a bitter blast of Arctic air will move into Maryland late Sunday and Sunday night.
Temperatures are expected to plunge into the teens and lower 20s by early Sunday evening, with northwest winds of 10 to 20 mph and gusts reaching 25 mph.
The combination of cold temperatures and gusty winds will drive wind chills into the single digits overnight Sunday into Monday morning.
Refreeze risk Sunday night into Monday
Forecasters warn that the bitter cold, combined with leftover snow and moisture on roadways, creates a high risk of refreezing Sunday night.
Black ice could develop quickly on roads, bridges, and sidewalks, making travel especially dangerous during the late night and early Monday morning hours.
Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distances, and remain alert for icy patches that may not be visible.
Cold start to the workweek, milder weather ahead
Monday is expected to be cold but sunny, with daytime highs only reaching the lower 30s. Some gradual melting will occur where sunshine reaches exposed surfaces, but shaded areas may remain icy.
Looking ahead, forecasters say much milder temperatures are likely by the end of next week, with highs climbing back into the 50s and the chance for rain returning.
Residents urged to prepare now
With snow, ice, and dangerous cold all expected in a short timeframe, residents are encouraged to prepare ahead of time, limit unnecessary travel during peak impact hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors and relatives.
Officials stress that while this is not expected to be a major snowstorm for most of the state, the timing and follow-up cold could make conditions more dangerous than snowfall totals alone might suggest.
How much snow did you see in your area, and how are you preparing for the cold snap? Share your local conditions and tips in the comments below.
