UPDATE: The National Weather Service has now issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Baltimore County from noon to 10 p.m. on Tuesday.

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect snow covered roads
and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.

Original story below…

——

This week’s forecast leaves little doubt that mid-winter is here.

The National Weather Service says that rain will develop and change to snow late Tuesday afternoon and early evening. The snow may be briefly heavy before ending later Tuesday evening. While accumulations are forecast to be around 1 to 3 inches, the abrupt transition to snow will result in rapidly deteriorating driving conditions.

Then, as temperatures drop below freezing Tuesday evening, any residual moisture and slush on roadways and sidewalks will be prone to freezing, resulting in slick conditions.

The greatest threat for impact from this snowfall during the Tuesday evening rush hour will be from the Blue Ridge and Catoctin Mountains eastward to the Chesapeake Bay, including the greater Baltimore and Washington Metropolitan Areas.

Motorists should be aware of the potential for travel disruptions.

Once the snow departs, the brutal cold sets in.

The NWS says that the low temperature Wednesday night into Thursday morning will be around 5 degrees, with wind chills below zero.

The daytime high on Thursday will be around 18 degrees.

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) says, as temperatures plummet to the coldest of the season, it is critical to have plenty of fuel to prevent fuel line freeze. Motorists should also check over critical engine systems, especially the cooling system. Inspect for any leaks in the radiator and the coolant hoses. Extremely cold weather can exasperate a small issue to a major problem.

MDOT SHA will closely monitor pavement temperatures as the back end of the storm will produce the coldest temperatures of the year so far. Crews will aggressively patrol for icy spots and drivers are reminded that elevated sections of roadways (bridges, ramps and overpasses) freeze first. As the cold temperatures will be very dangerous, drivers are urged to take precautions and ensure that they have winter survival kits including blankets, snacks and water, as well a full gas tank and fully charged mobile device before traveling.