Cumberland, Maryland – A high-impact winter storm is expected to bring dangerous travel conditions and heavy snowfall to western Maryland and nearby mountain counties starting Saturday afternoon, with impacts likely lasting into Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Monday afternoon for central and eastern Allegany County in Maryland, eastern Highland County in Virginia, and eastern Grant, Mineral, and Pendleton counties in West Virginia. Forecasters say there is a high likelihood of at least 6 inches of snow, with totals exceeding a foot possible in some areas along and west of the Allegheny Front.
Snow is expected to spread into the region Saturday afternoon and become heavy Saturday night, with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour possible. On Sunday, some areas—especially south of Highway 50 and west of the Allegheny Front—could see periods of sleet or freezing rain before precipitation changes back to snow Sunday night into Monday morning. Visibility may drop to a quarter mile or less during heavier bands.
Travel could be very difficult, including during the Monday morning commute. Bitter cold will follow the storm, with sub-zero wind chills possible at times through the middle of next week. Residents are urged to complete preparations early, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor updates as additional alerts may be issued.
