MARYLAND — What once looked like a possible storm for the Mid-Atlantic is now expected to bring only brief rain to most of Maryland on Thursday morning. The surface system is moving faster than the upper-level support needed to strengthen it, cutting down its impact for Baltimore, Washington, and central Maryland. Conditions will turn windy, cooler, and dry later Thursday, while snow still falls over the mountains of western Maryland and West Virginia.
Brief Rain Moves Through Thursday Morning
Futurecast guidance for 7 a.m. Thursday shows an area of low pressure near Baltimore, with a band of rain stretching across Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. Rain also extends north into New York and New England as the system moves east.
The rain should move out fairly quickly, making for a wet but short-lived morning commute. Drivers in Baltimore, Washington, Annapolis, and Frederick should still plan for wet roads and slower travel during the morning hours.
Windy, Cooler, and Dry Later Thursday
By Thursday evening, the low is expected to move off the coast toward New England, pulling drier and colder air into the region. Gusty northwest winds will develop behind the system, making temperatures feel even colder.
Skies should clear across central and eastern Maryland as the dry air settles in. Loose outdoor items and holiday decorations should be secured ahead of the stronger winds Thursday afternoon and night.
Garrett County Could See 1 to 2 Inches of Snow
Snow is still expected in the mountains of western Maryland, where Garrett County could pick up 1 to 2 inches. Elevations there range from about 2,000 to 3,000 feet, allowing colder air to support snow…