Baltimore residents and those in the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region are bracing for winter weather, as the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC forecasted. Chilly temperatures, mountain snow, and windy conditions are expected to persist through tonight, with snowfall rates reaching 1-2 inches per hour due to a nearby upper-level low-pressure system. According to the National Weather Service, 6 to 12 inches of snow could accumulate through Saturday morning, with storm total snowfall reaching 12 to 18 inches in some mountain areas.
In light of the winter onslaught, Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect across various counties. The Allegheny Front and other regions are facing significant disruptions in travel, particularly along major corridors like I-68 and US-219. The forecast discussion outlines how snow accumulations so far have ranged from 1 to 4 inches, with anticipation of further build-up. Blowing and drifting snow, causing periodic whiteout conditions, and gusty winds with chill factors in the teens and 20s will compound travel difficulties and outdoor activities.
For Baltimore and areas east of the Alleghenies, the season's first snowflakes are on the menu. A rain/snow mix is predicted to sweep southwards later in the morning and continue into the afternoon, potentially leaving a fresh coat of 1 to 3 inches in select regions. In addition to these accumulations, wind gusts reaching 25 to 35 mph later in the day could usher in Wind Advisories for specific areas. "An additional 6 to 12 inches of snow is forecast today through Saturday morning with, locally heavier amounts above 3000 feet," the National Weather Service report detailed the snowfall expectations for the affected elevations.
As the weekend progresses, weather conditions should improve with the upper-level low out-to-sea movement and high pressure inching from the south. Even so, marine operations remain on alert as high-end Small Craft Advisories are in effect through Saturday night, and the potential for Gale force gusts looms over the bay and lower tidal Potomac. The start of the following week may offer a respite from the winter weather, as primarily dry conditions are predicted. Still, a low-pressure system and potential Nor'easter could again shake things up around Thanksgiving, bringing fresh concerns of snow, even possibly east of the mountains.
