Brace yourself! A winter storm is about to hit Maryland and West Virginia, bringing up to 5 inches of snow, icy roads, and dangerously low visibility until Thursday evening.
The National Weather Service has issued an urgent weather alert, warning residents to expect slick, snow-covered roads, slow traffic, and potentially hazardous travel conditions.
With temperatures in the low 40s°F (5-7°C) during the day and dropping to the mid-30s°F (1-2°C) at night, roadways could quickly become icy, particularly in higher elevations and remote areas. If you must travel, plan for delays, dangerous driving conditions, and potential road closures.
What to Expect: Snow, Ice, and Travel Nightmares
Snowfall Accumulation:
- 2 to 5 inches of snow expected across Maryland and West Virginia, with the heaviest amounts in mountainous areas.
- Snowfall will begin Wednesday evening and continue through Thursday night, with the most intense periods of snow falling overnight.
- Snow could accumulate quickly, overwhelming road crews and making roads slick and treacherous.
Hazardous Road Conditions:
- Icy roads and reduced visibility will make travel extremely dangerous.
- Highways like I-68, I-70, and I-81 could see major delays and accidents due to slippery conditions.
- Commuters should expect longer travel times and check for potential school or business closures.
Cold Temperatures & Blowing Snow:
- Gusty winds will cause snow to drift, reducing visibility and making roads even harder to navigate.
- Wind chills will make it feel colder than the actual temperature, so dress warmly if you must go outside.
- The combination of wet roads, dropping temperatures, and gusty winds could lead to patches of black ice, making morning and evening commutes especially dangerous.
How to Stay Safe During the Storm
- Avoid unnecessary travel—if you must drive, go slowly and allow extra stopping distance.
- Stock up on essentials—food, water, and emergency supplies in case of power outages.
- Prepare for icy roads—salt driveways and sidewalks before the snow falls to prevent dangerous ice buildup.
- Check for school or business closures—many areas may delay opening or shut down completely
- .Keep your phone charged—in case you need to call for assistance during hazardous conditions.
When Will the Storm End?
Snowfall will subside by Thursday evening, but cold temperatures will keep roads icy and dangerous until Friday morning. Drivers should continue to exercise caution on untreated roads and check local advisories for updates before leaving.
The Bottom Line
Maryland and West Virginia are in for a messy and dangerous 24 hours, with up to 5 inches of snow, icy roads, and travel disruptions forecast. If you do not need to be on the road, stay inside and wait for conditions to improve.
Those who must travel should plan for slow traffic, slippery streets, and potential closures. Stay alert, safe, and watch for updates as the storm progresses.
