Baltimore and the surrounding regions brace for a mixed bag of weather conditions, according to the latest reports from the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC. Central Virginia is preparing for snowfall today as a low-pressure system takes aim at the area. This system could leave an inch or two of snow on the ground, with potential for higher amounts along the Blue Ridge, according to the National Weather Service. While it's a light event overall, the possibility of larger dendrites—snow crystals—means locales could see up to four inches in a worst case scenario.
Residents commuting through central Virginia might face snowy roads from 6 AM to about 6 PM, impacting both morning and evening rush hours. Meanwhile, Baltimore and DC metro areas will likely dodge the snow, instead dealing with cloudy skies and chilly temps. But the weather story doesn't end there. An Arctic high-pressure system is on the heels of this event and could usher in the coldest air of the season early next week. Nighttime temperatures could plummet into the teens or lower, with snow-blanketed regions feeling even colder with the wind chill factor.
Saturday may offer a brief respite with a weak ridge of high pressure bringing mostly cloudy but dry conditions. However, the following night, a secondary low-pressure pressure is expected to amplify the wave guide across North America, leading to a fresh round of snowfall, particularly along the I-95 corridor. Snow accumulations remain uncertain with a range of potential outcomes from a mere coating to, in more severe cases, up to six inches.
Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts should prepare for significant changes in the weather beyond the weekend. Snow early in the day, winds will pick up substantially behind this arctic front by Sunday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service, with potential for blustery gusts up to 45 mph in the mountain ridges, raising the likelihood for wind advisories. And while these strong winds are expected to weaken, they'll still bring bitterly cold wind chills into Monday morning.
Aviators and marine operators are also advised to watch for changing conditions. VFR weather is anticipated till the weekend, but snow and gusty winds by Sunday might complicate travel. Marine life could be turbulent with an Arctic front bringing possible gale conditions through Monday. As the week progresses, a warmer trend accompanied by chances of rain will replace the cold snap, with highs favoring more typical values for the season.
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