CALIFORNIA, Md. — The National Weather Service on Friday issued a Winter Storm Warning for Southern Maryland as a powerful system is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet and ice to the region late Saturday night through early Monday.
The warning is in effect from 11 p.m. Saturday until 4 a.m. Monday for portions of Southern Maryland, including Charles, St. Mary’s and Calvert counties, as well as parts of Virginia.
Forecasters expect total snow and sleet accumulations of 5 to 10 inches, along with ice accumulations around one-quarter of an inch. Snow is forecast to overspread the area Saturday night and could become heavy at times late Saturday night, with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour possible.
A transition to sleet and freezing rain is expected Sunday, increasing the risk of significant icing, particularly south of Highway 50. Visibility could drop to one-quarter mile or less during periods of heavier precipitation.
The combination of snow and ice is expected to create dangerous conditions. Power outages and tree damage are likely due to ice accumulation, and travel could become nearly impossible at times. Hazardous conditions could also impact the Monday morning commute.
Ahead of the storm, a Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 8 p.m. Friday until 10 a.m. Saturday, with wind chills expected to drop as low as 5 degrees below zero. Bitter cold is expected to persist into next week, potentially prolonging icy conditions even after precipitation ends.
Local officials urged residents to check with county emergency management offices for information on warming centers and other cold-weather resources, particularly if power outages occur.
Residents are urged to stay informed as the storm approaches. For the latest local forecasts, storm updates, and real-time information during the event — including access to the SMECO power outage map — visit The BayNet Weather Page at https://thebaynet.com/weather/.
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