Baltimore, Maryland – Drivers across western and northern Maryland should prepare now for accumulating snow that could begin as early as late Saturday night and intensify Sunday, potentially dropping 5 inches or more and impacting major corridors including I-95 and I-70 through Monday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect for portions of the Alleghenies, the Virginia Blue Ridge and northern Virginia into western and central Maryland. Forecasters say accumulating snow is likely Sunday into Monday, with the highest totals expected west of the I-95 corridor, including Hagerstown, Frederick and Cumberland.
In western Maryland along I-68 near Cumberland and Oakland, totals could approach or exceed 8 inches if heavier bands develop. Along I-70 through Hagerstown and Frederick, 5 to 8 inches are possible, leading to snow-covered roads and reduced visibility Sunday afternoon into early Monday. Areas closer to Baltimore and Annapolis may see lighter amounts, but even 3 to 5 inches could create slick conditions on bridges and overpasses.
Snow is expected to overspread much of the region Sunday morning, with the heaviest rates developing during the afternoon and evening hours. Commuters on I-95, I-83 and I-270 should anticipate delays, especially if snowfall rates exceed 1 inch per hour at times.
Residents are urged to monitor updates through the weekend, limit non-essential travel during peak snowfall Sunday and ensure vehicles are equipped for winter driving. Additional watches or warnings may be issued as confidence increases in snowfall totals and storm timing.
