Cumberland, Maryland – Snow-covered mountain roads in far western Maryland and adjacent West Virginia could turn slick and hazardous through Monday evening as up to 8 inches of snow and 45 mph wind gusts sweep across higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. Monday for Extreme Western Allegany County in Maryland and Western Mineral County in West Virginia. Total snowfall between 4 and 8 inches is expected, with the highest amounts above 2,500 feet. Northwest winds will increase tonight and continue through Monday, gusting between 35 and 45 mph.
Blowing snow may reduce visibility below a quarter mile at times, especially along Interstate 68 near Frostburg and over Backbone Mountain. Bridges and exposed ridgelines will become slick first as temperatures remain cold. The weight of snow combined with gusty winds could down tree limbs and power lines, leading to sporadic outages.
Travel could become difficult, particularly during the Monday morning commute. Officials urge drivers to delay non-essential trips and check 511 for updated road conditions. If travel is unavoidable, carry emergency supplies including food, water and a flashlight.
Snow and wind will gradually diminish by Monday evening, but patchy blowing snow may linger into the early nighttime hours.
