Cumberland, Maryland – Damaging west winds are roaring across the higher terrain of western Maryland, eastern West Virginia, and the Virginia Blue Ridge early Friday, raising the risk for widespread power outages and dangerous travel conditions through late evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore and Washington, a High Wind Warning remains in effect until Friday night for Allegany and Garrett counties in Maryland, along with portions of Grant, Mineral, and Pendleton counties in West Virginia and the Blue Ridge regions of western Virginia. Sustained winds between 25 and 40 mph are expected, with gusts peaking between 60 and 65 mph, especially along ridgelines and exposed locations.
Forecasters warn of multiple rounds of strong winds throughout the day. A surge of damaging gusts is occurring early Friday alongside a line of showers, followed by a brief lull before another stronger round develops from midday through late afternoon. A third surge of high winds is expected Friday evening, prolonging the threat for downed trees and power lines.
Travel will be particularly difficult along mountain roads and exposed highways, where strong crosswinds may impact high profile vehicles. Communities including Cumberland, Frostburg, Oakland, Keyser, Petersburg, and the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge are likely to see the most severe impacts.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, avoid wooded areas, and remain indoors during peak wind periods. Drivers should remain alert for falling debris and sudden gusts.
The High Wind Warning remains in effect through Friday night, and additional power outages and travel disruptions may continue until winds gradually diminish late tonight.
