Oakland, Maryland – A dangerous winter storm is setting up across the highest terrain of western Maryland and eastern West Virginia this evening, bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and near whiteout conditions that will make travel extremely difficult through Sunday afternoon.
Snow is expected to begin between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., quickly intensifying during the evening hours. The most dangerous window arrives from about 5 p.m. through midnight, when snowfall rates may reach one inch per hour. Gusty winds up to 35 mph will cause blowing and drifting snow, sharply reducing visibility and rapidly covering roads.
According to the National Weather Service office in Baltimore/Washington, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 4 p.m. Sunday for western Garrett County, Maryland, and western Grant County, West Virginia. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are expected, with the highest totals near ridge tops and along west-facing slopes. Conditions will remain hazardous well into Sunday as snow continues and temperatures stay cold.
Travel impacts will be severe along major mountain routes. According to emergency management officials, conditions along I-68 and U.S. 40 west of Big Savage Mountain, U.S. 219 from the Pennsylvania line to West Virginia, and U.S. 48 west of Moorefield could become dangerous or impassable at times tonight. Blowing snow may drop visibility to near a quarter mile, especially during heavier bursts.
Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel during the height of the storm. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should carry emergency supplies including food, water, and a flashlight. Power disruptions are possible where heavy, wind-driven snow accumulates on trees and lines.
Snow gradually tapers Sunday afternoon, but lingering slick roads and drifting snow may persist even after snowfall ends.
