Latest Snow Forecast For MD Calls For 5-12 Inch Totals

MARYLAND — The first big snow storm of the year arrived in Maryland Monday morning, with schools canceled as the state braces for 5 to 12 inches of snowfall and sleet.

The latest forecast from the National Weather Service has the central and southern counties seeing between 8 and 12 inches of snow. The rest of Maryland could see 4 to 6 inches of snow, with far western areas receiving about a foot of snow, as well.

Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency due to the expected threat of the winter storm which will batter the state into Tuesday. All state offices are closed on Monday.

"The storm will cause hazardous road conditions and will affect public transportation, with the potential for significant snowfall throughout the state—including a projected 8”-12” in some regions," Moore said. "Marylanders are strongly encouraged to avoid travel, to follow local forecasts, and to stay prepared for winter storm hazards."

Major hazards include icy roadways, frozen pipes, and extreme cold, state officials said.

The National Weather Service's Baltimore-Washington office said travel conditions started to deteriorate overnight as the region saw moderate to heavy snowfall rates. Snow rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour continued Monday morning. Forecasters expect a pause in the snow in the late morning to early afternoon before another round of snow with 1 to 3 more inches. Intermittent light snow with sleet or freezing drizzle is possible before the second round of snow.

A winter storm warning remains in effect until 1 a.m. Tuesday for Carroll, Baltimore, Prince George's, Anne Arundel, Montgomery and Howard counties.

Total snow accumulations between 6 and 10 inches are forecast, with amounts of up to 12 inches possible in isolated spots if heavy banding sets up in this area, according to the National Weather Service. A trace of ice is forecast with the snow.

"During the times of heaviest snowfall, even primary roads may be impassable. It is highly recommended to postpone non-essential travel," the Weather Service said.

Many facilities are closed around the region Monday, such as local government offices, schools and federal government offices. Amtrak has canceled some train routes between Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Boston Monday and Tuesday, according to its website.

Over 400 flights have been canceled as of Monday morning at Reagan National Airport; another 91 at Washington Dulles International Airport and 107 at Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport, The Washington Post reported.

The four major airlines serving Baltimore, DC and Northern Virginia — American, Delta, Southwest and United — are waiving change fees for flights affected by the winter storm.

Preparing For A Winter Storm

• Include blankets, hats, mittens, and other warm clothing in your preparedness kit during winter months.
• Bring pets inside if possible, or create a safe space for outdoor animal companions to keep warm, safe from the elements, and able to find food.
• Winterize your vehicle and keep your gas tank at least half full to keep ice from building up in your gas tank and fuel lines.
• Take precautions to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep a supply of driveway salt or non-clumping kitty litter ready to go. You can spread either on outdoor surfaces to combat ice and make them less slippery.
• Check your home's smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work and have good batteries.
• Check for updates from the National Weather Service, and sign up for MdReady text alerts to receive news about storms, watches, and warnings.

Information about assistance with energy bills is available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Generator Safety

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.
• Learn more about safe generator use from the American Red Cross.

Staying Safe During Winter Storms

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
• Watch for symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite - it can set in quickly, especially if you have exposed skin or have been outside in the cold for an extended period of time.
• Please avoid travel if possible. If you absolutely must travel, be sure to let someone know your route and destination before you go.
• Know your evacuation routes.
• If you're able, check on older neighbors or relatives who may live alone to see if they're doing well or need assistance.