Winter Storm Warning: Up to a foot of snow possible in parts of Maryland, Virginia

WASHINGTON – Parts of Maryland and Virginia could see up to a foot of snow as a winter storm moves across the region Thursday into Friday.

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for Garrett County in Maryland, Western Highland County in Virginia, and Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties in West Virginia. The warnings are valid until Saturday morning.

Winter Storm Watch: Snow likely in parts of Virginia, Maryland

Up to a foot of heavy snow could fall overnight, the NWS says. The weather bureau says 12 to 18 inches are possible along ridgetops.

“There’s a lot of snow out in the mountains to the west,” said FOX 5’s Tucker Barnes. “Before it ends late Friday night, early Saturday morning, higher elevations out there. Maybe a foot of snow. Can you believe it?”

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The NWS warns that visibility along roadways may drop below 1/4 mile at times due to falling and blowing snow. Whiteout conditions are expected and can make travel extremely difficult. The heaviest snow is likely Thursday afternoon, and then again late Friday morning through Friday evening. Strong winds and snow can also lead to downed trees and power outages.

In the immediate Washington, DC area, there is a chance for a few showers Friday morning. Showers may persist through Friday before clearing for the weekend. Saturday and Sunday should be pleasant and mostly sunny with highs in the 50s.

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