Mid-Atlantic – A powerful Arctic system is expected to bring heavy snow, near-blizzard conditions, and dangerously cold wind chills across parts of the DMV and Mid-Atlantic region from Friday morning through Saturday morning, prompting multiple Winter Storm Watches.
According to the National Weather Service, the highest impacts are expected in western Maryland, central and western Pennsylvania, and northern and central West Virginia, particularly in higher elevations and mountain communities.
In western Maryland, including Garrett County, snowfall totals around 6 inches are possible, with locally higher amounts along Backbone Mountain, Keysers Ridge, and Piney Mountain. Wind gusts could reach 60 mph, creating whiteout conditions on I-68, US-219, and US-40, where travel may become treacherous or impassable.
In Pennsylvania, Cambria and Somerset counties could see 2 to 4 inches of snow, with up to 6 inches on ridgetops. Near-blizzard conditions are possible Friday afternoon into Friday night, with wind chills plunging to 20 to 30 degrees below zero, creating life-threatening exposure risks.
Across West Virginia, multiple regions — including Greenbrier, Preston, Randolph, Pocahontas, Nicholas, and Tucker counties — may see 3 to 7 inches of snow with wind gusts between 45 and 50 mph, leading to blowing snow, downed tree branches, and possible power outages.
Officials warn the storm could severely impact the Friday evening commute and strongly urge residents to delay travel if possible. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur in less than 30 minutes in expected conditions.
Forecasters stress that a Winter Storm Watch means conditions are favorable for significant winter weather, and warnings may be issued as confidence increases. Residents should closely monitor updated forecasts and prepare now.
