Oakland, Maryland – A powerful cold front will sweep through the Allegheny Highlands Monday evening, triggering falling temperatures, snow showers, and the potential for a rapid flash freeze that could make roads icy overnight into Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a Winter Weather Advisory will take effect at 7 p.m. Monday and continue until 11 a.m. Tuesday for Western Garrett County in Maryland and western portions of Grant and Pendleton counties in West Virginia. Snow accumulations of 2 to 3 inches are expected, with locally higher totals possible along the ridgetops.
Strong winds may gust up to 50 mph, blowing snow across exposed mountain roads and increasing the risk for reduced visibility. High-elevation routes such as U.S. Route 50, U.S. 219, and WV Route 28 could quickly become slick as temperatures plunge behind the front.
Forecasters warn that temperatures will drop rapidly Monday night, potentially causing a flash freeze as wet pavement turns to ice. Wind chill values may fall into the lower single digits across higher elevations by early Tuesday.
Drivers should plan for changing road conditions overnight and during the Tuesday morning commute. Officials urge residents to slow down, check road conditions through 511, and secure loose outdoor items ahead of the strong winds. Additional advisories could be issued if snow bands intensify along the mountain ridges.
