Baltimore, MD — The National Weather Service (NWS) Baltimore/Washington has issued a Blizzard Warning for portions of western Maryland and the Allegheny Mountains, in effect from 10 a.m. Wednesday through 10 a.m. Thursday.
Forecasters warn of severe winter conditions, including 4–7 inches of snow, with localized totals up to 12 inches in the higher elevations of Garrett County, MD, and Pendleton and Grant counties in West Virginia. Accompanying the snow will be powerful winds gusting 40–50 mph, creating whiteout conditions and nearly impossible travel at times.
Adjacent areas, including portions of Allegany and Mineral counties, are under a Winter Weather Advisory, where 2–3 inches of snow and gusts up to 35 mph are expected.
“Blizzard conditions will significantly reduce visibility and make travel extremely dangerous,” the NWS said. “Only travel in an emergency, and if you must, carry winter survival gear.”
The worst conditions are expected late Wednesday afternoon through early Thursday morning, when snow bands and strong wind gusts will overlap. Temperatures will hover in the mid-20s, but wind chills could dip into the single digits overnight.
Motorists traveling along Interstate 68 and mountain passes such as Savage Mountain and Keysers Ridge are advised to delay travel until conditions improve Thursday.
By late Thursday, winds are forecast to diminish, but snow showers and blowing snow may linger across the ridges.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, check emergency kits, and prepare for potential power outages.
For the latest updates, visit weather.gov/lwx/winter or follow @NWS_BaltWash for real-time alerts.
