Maryland, January 22, 2026
Residents of Maryland are gearing up for a major winter storm expected to hit the state this weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for multiple areas, forecasting heavy snowfall of at least 5 inches, with some regions possibly accumulating over 10 inches. As the storm progresses, a mix of sleet and freezing rain is anticipated, leading to potential power outages and hazardous travel conditions. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions and stay informed about the evolving weather situation.
Maryland Braces for Major Winter Storm This Weekend
Maryland residents are preparing for a significant winter storm expected to impact the state from Saturday evening, January 24, through Sunday night, January 25, 2026. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for central and northern Maryland, northern and western Virginia, and eastern West Virginia, indicating the potential for heavy snowfall and hazardous conditions.
Forecasted Conditions
Forecasters anticipate that the storm will bring widespread, heavy snow beginning Saturday evening, with initial estimates suggesting at least 5 inches of accumulation, and some areas potentially seeing over 10 inches. As the storm progresses into Sunday, the precipitation may transition into a mix of sleet and freezing rain, particularly for areas south of Interstate 70 and east of Interstate 95. This shift could lead to significant icing, posing risks of power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
Impacts and Precautions
Residents are advised to prepare for difficult travel conditions, especially during the Sunday morning commute. Authorities recommend limiting nonessential travel, winterizing vehicles and homes, and dressing appropriately for extreme cold. Additionally, a prolonged period of frigid temperatures is expected to follow the storm, with wind chills in the teens and single digits likely beginning Friday evening and lasting through the middle of next week.
Historical Context
This upcoming storm follows a pattern of significant winter weather events in Maryland. For instance, on January 5–6, 2025, the state experienced a blizzard that led to numerous service calls and traffic incidents. Baltimore received 6.6 inches of snow during that event, marking the city’s largest snowfall in three years at the time.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and heed any advisories or warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Staying informed will help ensure safety during the impending winter storm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What areas are under the Winter Storm Watch?
The Winter Storm Watch covers central and northern Maryland, northern and western Virginia, and eastern West Virginia.
When is the storm expected to occur?
The storm is expected to impact the region from Saturday evening, January 24, through Sunday night, January 25, 2026.
What are the forecasted snowfall amounts?
Initial estimates suggest at least 5 inches of accumulation, with some areas potentially seeing over 10 inches.
What should residents do to prepare?
Residents are advised to prepare for difficult travel conditions, especially during the Sunday morning commute. Authorities recommend limiting nonessential travel, winterizing vehicles and homes, and dressing appropriately for extreme cold.
How does this storm compare to previous events?
This storm follows a pattern of significant winter weather events in Maryland, such as the January 5–6, 2025 blizzard that led to numerous service calls and traffic incidents, with Baltimore receiving 6.6 inches of snow during that event.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Duration | Saturday evening, January 24, through Sunday night, January 25, 2026 |
| Winter Storm Watch Areas | Central and northern Maryland, northern and western Virginia, eastern West Virginia |
| Forecasted Snowfall | At least 5 inches, with some areas potentially over 10 inches |
| Precipitation Transition | Snow to sleet and freezing rain, especially south of I-70 and east of I-95 |
| Potential Impacts | Hazardous travel conditions, power outages, frigid temperatures |
| Historical Context | January 5–6, 2025 blizzard with 6.6 inches of snow in Baltimore |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Water Main Breaks Disrupt Middle River Traffic and Water Service
Suspect Fatally Shot After Shooting at Officers in Baltimore
Baltimore Prepares for Potential Snow This Weekend
Baltimore Weather Update and Economic Resilience
Baltimore Braces for Cold Week with Possible Snow Ahead
Baltimore City Schools and State Government Closed Amid Winter Storm
Maryland Faces Colder, Snowier Winter as Farmers’ Almanac Ends
Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Baltimore Area
Maryland Road Crews Prepare for Winter Storm After Christmas
Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Impact Baltimore Region
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
