Maryland Snowstorm: Winter Storm Watch Issued for Sunday – Up to 2 Feet Possible

A sizable storm is likely to impact Maryland on Sunday, with the potential for several inches of snow.

Forecast Uncertainty

Forecast models currently disagree on the strength and track of the approaching storm. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the area through late Sunday night.

Did You Recognize? The National Blend of Models combines data from over 20 different models and observational data to create a statistically likely forecast.

Model Discrepancies

The Global Forecast System (GFS) indicates a high-impact scenario, though with low confidence, predicting up to 2 feet of snowfall. Conversely, the European Model (EURO) suggests a less severe storm, with potential accumulations of up to 6 inches of snow. The National Blend of Models (NBM) currently forecasts around 5 inches of snowfall.

Timeline and Potential Impacts

A chilly rain and snow mix is expected to develop early Sunday, transitioning to wet snow by Sunday evening and continuing into Monday morning. Snowfall totals could range from 1 inch to 2 feet, with the most likely outcome being 1-3 inches and a possibility of up to 6 inches. The ground, warmed by recent rain and temperatures in the 50s, may initially limit accumulation, with more significant “stickage” occurring after sunset.

Expert Insight: The wide range of potential snowfall amounts highlights the inherent challenges in forecasting winter storms. Relying on a blend of models, like the NBM, is a common practice to account for these uncertainties and provide a more balanced assessment.

Impacts from the storm are expected to continue into Monday morning, potentially causing delays due to below-freezing temperatures and slick road conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Winter Storm Watch?

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for our area through late Sunday night.

What are the different forecast models predicting?

The GFS is showing up to 2 feet of snowfall, the EURO up to 6 inches, and the NBM around 5 inches.

When is the snow most likely to begin?

A chilly rain/snow mix is expected to develop early Sunday, with wet snow likely by Sunday evening and night into Monday morning.

How will you prepare for potential travel disruptions this weekend?

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