Baltimore and the surrounding region are bracing for harsh winter conditions this weekend, with forecasts indicating the potential for near-blizzard scenarios and severe cold, as detailed in an area forecast discussion released by the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC. Weather Service predictions pinpoint the Allegheny Mountains as the location expecting some of the most extreme weather starting late Friday morning, and extended cold watches have kicked in for Saturday morning.
As the cold front rolls in, “Heavy Freezing Spray Watches” are also in place for waters south of Drum Point and Cobb Island, anticipating icy conditions over the weekend. The same forecast states officials are increasing in their confidence for wind-related advisories and additional cold weather signals heading into the late hours of Friday and continuing beyond. Deep troughs impacting the northern Mid-Atlantic are likely to cause significant snow showers, with squalls and strong winds leading to heavy blowing and potential drifting snow, making travel hazardous.
Air travel is expected to be affected as well, with temporary flight restrictions likely due to the forecast snow showers on Friday afternoon, leading to potential difficulties for air traffic, and very windy conditions predicted for Saturday, according to service updates from the National Weather Service. Wind conditions may escalate to frequent gusts reaching 40-45 knots, with some occurrences peaking up to 50 knots, particularly between the hours of 09Z and 15Z on Saturday…