Cumberland, Maryland – Power outages and hazardous travel conditions are escalating across the central Appalachians Friday as a powerful windstorm targets western Maryland and eastern West Virginia, bringing the risk of falling trees, flying debris, and dangerous crosswinds through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a High Wind Warning remains in effect until late tonight for Eastern Garrett and Extreme Western Allegany counties in Maryland, along with Western Grant, Western Mineral, and Western Pendleton counties in West Virginia. West winds of 30 to 40 mph are expected, with peak gusts reaching up to 70 mph. The strongest winds are forecast to surge late this morning and again from midafternoon through the evening.
In Garrett County, exposed ridges and higher elevations are most vulnerable to downed trees and prolonged power outages. Allegany County communities, including Cumberland, may see sudden power interruptions and blocked roadways as wind gusts intensify. In West Virginia’s Potomac Highlands, travel along mountain roads could become dangerous, especially for tractor-trailers and other high-profile vehicles.
Emergency officials urge residents to remain in lower levels of their homes and avoid windows during peak winds. Outdoor items should be secured immediately, and drivers should delay travel if possible. Charging mobile devices ahead of time is recommended in case of extended outages.
Winds are expected to gradually ease late tonight, though gusty conditions may linger past midnight. Additional advisories could follow if impacts persist.
