Treacherous Tuesday Morning Commute Ahead: Snow and Freezing Rain Expected

By BJLife Newsroom
Posted on 12/23/24

Baltimore, MD - Dec. 23, 2024  - A mix of snow and freezing rain on Tuesday morning has prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a Winter Weather Advisory for Maryland and the D.C. area, effective from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hazardous travel conditions are expected as icy roads create dangerous situations, especially during the busy morning commute.

• Timing and Areas Affected:
  Light precipitation will begin early Tuesday morning, around 5 a.m., along and west of US-15, reaching the I-95 corridor near sunrise. Precipitation will start as light freezing rain and may mix with snow at times, especially north of Interstate 70. The precipitation will transition to a mix of rain and freezing rain late Tuesday morning, tapering off by early afternoon.

• Ice and Snow Accumulations:

  • A glaze of ice up to 0.05 inches is expected across most areas, sticking to roads, sidewalks, and untreated surfaces.
  • Snow accumulations will be minimal, with a dusting to 1 inch possible in parts of northern Maryland, southern Pennsylvania, and the Catoctin Mountains.
  • Roads, bridges, and overpasses will become slick and hazardous quickly due to freezing ground temperatures.

• Counties Under Advisory:
  The advisory includes Carroll, Baltimore, Prince George's, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Howard, and Harford counties, as well as the District of Columbia.

Impact:
Even light ice and snow can cause treacherous travel conditions, with slippery roads expected across the region. The morning commute will be significantly impacted. Holiday travelers should take extra caution or delay plans until conditions improve.

NWS Warning:
"Light freezing rain accumulations are expected with temps in the 20s, which will lead to treacherous travel conditions during the Tuesday morning commute."

Recommendations:
Avoid travel until after 12 p.m. Tuesday, when rising temperatures are expected to melt ice. If you must drive, proceed cautiously and watch for slick spots, especially on bridges and overpasses.