West Virginia and Western Maryland Urged to Monitor Weather as Hazardous Winter Conditions Forecasted for Wednesday Morning

West Virginia and Western Maryland are advised to closely monitor weather conditions as a fast-moving winter storm is expected to bring hazardous snow, freezing drizzle, and gusty winds on Wednesday morning. These conditions are likely to cause slippery roads, unsafe travel, and potential power outages, making it vital for residents and travelers to stay informed and prepared, particularly during the morning commute.

The storm will impact both regions, creating dangerous travel conditions from the early hours of the morning through the afternoon, as snow and freezing drizzle combine to make roads hazardous.

From about 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, light snow accumulation of up to one inch is expected in several areas, including western Garrett County in Maryland, as well as neighboring western Grant and Pendleton counties in West Virginia. In addition to the snow, periods of freezing drizzle are anticipated, which will likely create a glaze of ice on roads, bridges, and elevated surfaces. The combination of snow and ice will create dangerously slippery conditions.

Wind gusts could reach speeds of up to 45 mph, further complicating travel as the gusty winds may blow snow and ice across roadways. This could cause additional hazards, including fallen branches and isolated power outages, as trees weakened by the ice struggle to withstand the strong winds.

The most dangerous time for travel is expected to be late tonight through the Wednesday morning commute, with untreated roads and bridges potentially becoming slick. Even small amounts of ice can lead to hazardous driving conditions, particularly in areas like U.S. 219 and I-68 near the Backbone Mountain corridor. Secondary mountain roads will also be susceptible to ice buildup, making them a concern for early commuters.

Transportation crews from the Maryland Department of Transportation and the West Virginia Department of Highways will be actively treating priority routes to prevent icing, but drivers are urged to remain cautious, especially as road conditions can change rapidly. Higher elevations and shaded areas are more likely to experience freezing conditions, and sudden icy patches can appear unexpectedly. The gusty winds may also blow snow and ice across the roads, further impairing visibility and making driving more treacherous. Additionally, these strong winds could bring down tree limbs that have already been weakened by the freezing rain.

Residents and travelers in the affected areas should be prepared for difficult conditions on Wednesday morning. Schools and businesses in these regions should keep an eye on the weather and make adjustments accordingly. Given the hazardous travel conditions, it is highly recommended that non-essential travel be avoided, especially during the morning commute. Drivers should allow extra space between vehicles, slow down on curves, bridges, and overpasses, and exercise caution when approaching intersections or entering roads that might be covered in a thin layer of ice.

In addition to road safety, residents are advised to secure any loose outdoor items, such as patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations, which could be blown around by the high winds. Power outages are also a possibility due to fallen branches or downed power lines, so it’s wise to have backup plans for charging devices and to keep extra batteries on hand in case of an extended power disruption.

Travelers are urged to monitor weather conditions closely throughout the day, as winter storm conditions may persist longer than initially anticipated. Anyone planning to head out during the storm should check local forecasts and travel advisories before leaving. It’s crucial to keep updated on any potential road closures, delays, or service interruptions, especially in areas prone to more significant ice accumulation.

West Virginia and Western Maryland are urged to monitor weather conditions as hazardous winter weather, including snow, freezing drizzle, and gusty winds, is forecasted for Wednesday morning, creating dangerous travel and potential power outages.

In conclusion, residents and travelers in West Virginia and Western Maryland should stay vigilant as a winter storm brings hazardous conditions on Wednesday. With snow, freezing drizzle, and strong winds expected to create dangerous travel and potential power outages, it’s crucial to monitor updates and take necessary precautions. Limiting travel, securing outdoor items, and preparing for brief power disruptions will help ensure safety during this challenging weather event.

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