Travel throughout the higher mountains of western Maryland and neighboring Virginia may become difficult late Wednesday as heavy snow and strong winds combine to decrease visibility and generate near-blizzard conditions. Roads near the Allegheny Front may quickly become snow-covered, with blowing snow making visibility difficult at times during the night.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore and Washington, a Winter Weather Advisory is in place from 4 p.m. Wednesday to 10 a.m. Thursday for extreme western Allegany County in Maryland and western Highland County in Virginia. Snow accumulations are forecast to range between 2 and 5 inches, with wind gusts exceeding 50 mph. Visibility could be reduced to a half mile or less at times, particularly late Wednesday evening and early Thursday.
The most dangerous circumstances are forecast shortly before midnight Wednesday and continuing into the early morning hours. Gusty winds can also pull down tree limbs and cause localized power outages, while wind chills can reach near zero on exposed ridges and valleys.
Drivers are warned to avoid needless driving during the severe weather, especially overnight. Slowing down, giving extra stopping distance, and phoning 511 to check road conditions are strongly encouraged. Snow and blowing snow may persist throughout Thursday morning, and more warnings may be issued if conditions worsen along the higher hills.
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