Winter Storm Watch Issued: 5+ inches of snow possible across Maryland and northern Virginia

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The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for a large portion of the Mid-Atlantic region, warning of the potential for 5 or more inches of snow starting Sunday afternoon and continuing into Monday morning. The watch covers central, northern, and northeast Maryland, as well as northern Virginia, with the heaviest snowfall and coldest temperatures expected between late Sunday afternoon and early Monday.

Why it matters

This winter storm has the potential to significantly impact travel and commuting across the region, with heavy, wet snow and low visibility making driving conditions very difficult, especially during the critical Monday morning rush hour. Residents are being urged to monitor forecasts and prepare for potential delays and disruptions.

The details

Meteorologists are warning that rapid snow accumulation may make it difficult for road crews to keep up, while increasing winds combined with the snowfall could reduce visibility for drivers. As temperatures drop below freezing on Sunday night, the snow will stick more readily to the pavement, further complicating travel. The Maryland Department of Transportation is already preparing for the system, though officials note that a slight shift in the storm's track could drastically change local snowfall totals.

• The Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning.
• Light snow or a rain-snow mix could begin as early as Sunday morning.
• The most intense snowfall and coldest temperatures are expected between late Sunday afternoon and the early hours of Monday.

What’s next

The Maryland Department of Transportation has already begun preparing for the system, though officials note that a shift in the storm's track by even 25 to 50 miles could drastically change local snowfall totals.