Winter Weather Advisory to Impact Maryland, Northern Virginia, and West Virginia With Freezing Rain During Friday Commute

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND — Weather officials have issued a Winter Weather Advisory for large portions of Maryland, northern Virginia, and parts of eastern West Virginia, warning that freezing rain and sleet could create slick roads and hazardous travel conditions from Friday afternoon through late Friday night. The advisory is timed to coincide with the evening commute, raising concerns for drivers across the region.

According to the latest forecast data and advisory maps, areas north and west of Washington, D.C., including western and northern Loudoun County, northern Montgomery County, Howard County, and locations farther north into Maryland, face the greatest risk of light ice accumulation.

Areas Under Winter Weather Advisory

The advisory stretches across a broad swath of the Mid-Atlantic, covering much of central and western Maryland, northern Virginia, and the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Cities and communities such as Cumberland, Martinsburg, Westminster, and areas north of Baltimore are included in the impacted zone.

Forecasters indicate that colder surface temperatures in these areas will allow freezing rain and sleet to develop, while locations farther south — including Richmond and much of southern Virginia — are expected to see mostly plain rain. This sharp north-to-south temperature divide is a key factor in determining where icy conditions will develop.

Freezing Rain and Ice Accumulation Concerns

Meteorologists warn that a light glaze of ice, estimated at 0.05 to 0.10 inches, could form on untreated roads, bridges, and elevated surfaces. While the accumulation may seem minor, even a thin layer of ice can significantly reduce traction and increase the risk of vehicle spin-outs and accidents.

The timing of the event adds to the concern. The advisory begins around noon Friday and continues through midnight, meaning the most hazardous conditions could occur during the late afternoon and evening commute. Drivers may encounter sudden slick spots, especially on secondary roads and less-traveled routes.

Ice Storm Warning in Western Maryland

In addition to the broader advisory, a localized Ice Storm Warning has been issued for parts of far western Maryland, particularly near the Appalachian region. These areas, shown in darker shading on the advisory map, could see higher ice accumulations, increasing the risk of downed tree limbs and isolated power outages.

Residents in these western zones are urged to prepare for the possibility of brief power disruptions and to avoid unnecessary travel once precipitation begins.

Impact on Travel and Public Safety

Transportation officials are closely monitoring conditions as temperatures hover near the freezing mark. Even small changes in surface temperature could rapidly worsen road conditions. Crews are expected to pre-treat major roadways, but officials stress that drivers should remain cautious, reduce speed, and allow extra travel time.

Air travel disruptions are not expected to be widespread, but localized delays could occur at regional airports if icing becomes more widespread than forecast. Emergency managers are advising residents to stay informed as conditions evolve through the evening.

What to Expect Heading Into the Weekend

Precipitation is expected to taper off overnight, with temperatures gradually rising above freezing in most areas by early Saturday morning. Any lingering slick spots should improve as warmer air moves in, though shaded and elevated surfaces may remain icy for a short time.

No significant additional winter weather is expected immediately after this system, but forecasters emphasize that winter conditions can change quickly, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region.

As Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia prepare for another round of winter weather, residents are encouraged to monitor local updates, limit travel during peak icing periods, and take precautions to stay safe. For continued weather updates, regional advisories, and community-focused coverage, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.