Strong Wind Advisories and High Wind Warnings Issued Across Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia Ahead of Damaging Gusts Friday
MARYLAND, VIRGINIA & WEST VIRGINIA — A significant wind event is expected to develop Friday afternoon across a large portion of the Mid-Atlantic, with forecasters warning of damaging gusts capable of downing trees, power lines, and unsecured outdoor items.
Mid-Atlantic Braces for Damaging Winds on Friday
According to the latest alerts issued by the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, Wind Advisories and High Wind Warnings will go into effect beginning early Friday morning and continue into the evening.
High Wind Warnings in the Mountains, Strong Gusts for the Region
The strongest winds are forecast along the Appalachian Mountains, where a High Wind Warning will remain active from 6 AM to 10 PM.
In these higher-elevation zones of western Virginia and eastern West Virginia, expected gusts may reach 60–65 mph, strong enough to cause tree damage and localized power outages.
Further east — including portions of central Maryland, northern Virginia, and the Washington, D.C. metro region — a Wind Advisory will be in effect from 12 PM to 7 PM, where gusts may reach 50–55 mph during the afternoon hours.
The NWS wind hazard map shows extensive coverage of both alerts, with high-risk zones concentrated from Oakland and Cumberland down through Harrisonburg, Staunton, and the Blue Ridge region.
Potential Impacts: Power Outages, Downed Trees, and Travel Difficulties
Forecasters warn that unsecured decorations, outdoor furniture, and loose holiday displays may be blown around or damaged.
With recent rainfall in some areas softening the soil, trees may be more susceptible to uprooting, which could increase the risk of power outages throughout the region.
Motorists — especially those driving high-profile vehicles — may experience difficulty maintaining control during the peak wind hours.
The NWS also notes that falling limbs may create additional roadway hazards.
What Residents Should Do Ahead of the Wind Event
Residents across Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia are encouraged to:
- Secure outdoor items such as holiday decorations, inflatables, lawn furniture, and trash bins
- Stay alert for falling limbs or debris
- Prepare for possible power outages
- Exercise caution when driving, especially on open stretches of highway or through mountain gaps
Forecasters emphasize that wind speeds of this magnitude can be dangerous even without thunderstorms, and conditions will worsen rapidly Friday afternoon.
Stay Updated
The National Weather Service will continue monitoring the evolving wind forecast and issue updates as needed.
Residents are advised to check local alerts, prepare early, and exercise caution throughout Friday.
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