A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect across portions of western Maryland and western Virginia through Thursday morning, with accumulating snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions expected into the early hours of New Year’s Day.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, the advisory continues until 10 a.m. EST for extreme western Allegany County in Maryland and western Highland County in Virginia. Snowfall totals of 2 to 5 inches are forecast before conditions gradually improve later Thursday morning.
Forecasters warn that winds may gust as high as 50 mph, creating areas of blowing snow and reducing visibility to one-half mile or less at times. Wind chills are expected to drop to near zero overnight and into the early morning hours, increasing the risk of exposure for anyone outdoors.
The National Weather Service said the most hazardous conditions are expected through the early morning hours of New Year’s Day, when snow and strong winds may combine to rapidly deteriorate road conditions. Slippery travel is expected along key routes including U.S. Route 220 west of Cumberland, Maryland, and U.S. Route 250 west of Monterey, Virginia.
Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches, which could lead to isolated power disruptions in exposed and higher-elevation areas.
Officials warned that the hazardous conditions could affect commuters heading out early Thursday, especially in mountainous terrain where snow and wind impacts are often more severe.
Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and use caution when traveling overnight and early Thursday. Travelers are encouraged to check the latest road conditions by calling 511 before heading out.
While snowfall is expected to taper later in the morning, lingering slick roads and blowing snow may persist beyond sunrise in higher elevations.
