Maryland Weather Forecast: Ice May Impact Roadways Until Noon Saturday

A winter weather advisory has been extended for parts of central Maryland on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Many communities in Maryland will get their first look at winter weather early Saturday morning, along with hazardous conditions for motorists.

Winter weather advisories have been issued for the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metro areas.

Portions of the region to the far north and west, including parts of Harford, Baltimore and Carroll counties are under a winter weather advisory from 11 p.m. Friday until 1 p.m. Saturday. Snow accumulation will be less than 1 inch, along with up to two-tenths of an inch of ice.

The rest of Harford and Baltimore counties, along with Howard and Montgomery counties, among others, will be under an advisory from midnight until noon Saturday. There will be trace amounts of sleet, along with around a tenth of an inch of ice from freezing rain.

Prince George's and Anne Arundel counties will be under an advisory until 9 a.m., with around a tenth of an inch of ice from freezing rain.

"The main concern is a period of freezing rain which may make roads very icy, especially after the ongoing very cold weather," according to a weather service statement.

The chances for snow have reduced through the day, but concerns about sleet and ice will now extend through the morning. Precipitation will eventually change to rain mid-day Saturday as temperatures warm.

"While major roadways have been pre-treated, freezing rain can still create icy condition," according to a statement by the Maryland State Highway Administration. "Please remember to pack your patience as you plan out your weekend activities. Keep your gas tank filled and have a charged cell phone handy. Never pass snow plows or plow trains. If you don’t have to travel, stay home and let our crews have space to work."

Here are 8 tips for driving in winter weather conditions, provided by AAA:

• Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks.
• Never run a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
• Make certain your tires are properly inflated.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full.
• If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather.
• Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).
• Always look and steer where you want to go.
• Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.

The high Saturday will be near 44 degrees. Showers and high winds will continue through Sunday, with the high up to 55 degrees.

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