Awaiting the first snow of 2019
Meteorologists forecast 2 to 4 inches from today through Sunday in county
This one is looking real, folks. With cold air being pushed south by a high pressure system anchored over New England, rising moist air from the southwest will turn to snow in Anne Arundel County beginning this afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.
Then tonight into Sunday morning, more intense snow is expected as a low-pressure system moving toward the coast off the Carolinas pushes more moisture into our area.
Potentially a classic cold air plus coastal low scenario.
The bottom line: 2 to 4 inches locally. But, as usual, there is potential wobble in that prediction.
“If I were to lean in any direction, I would lean toward the higher end of that range,” NWS meteorologist Kevin Witt said Friday night.
But even that could change. There is a chance that a late nudge north from the expected path of the coastal system could mean more snow given the entrenched cold. Conversely a nudge south could mean less.
But the forecast models have been in virtual agreement for the past 36 hours without any real swings in predicted snowfall.
Areas south of Anne Arundel, like Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, were expected to see a couple of inches more than what’s forecast here.
“The low pressure is expected to go out to sea off the Carolina coast, perhaps as far north as Norfolk,” Witt said. “That is why
you are seeing the 3- to 4-inch range holding in your area.”
State Highway Administration trucks were out applying chemicals to roadways. The telltale stripes could be seen on most state roads throughout the day Friday.
Anne Arundel County crews were at the ready with chemicals and plows.
“With the potential for our first statewide winter weather event of 2019, I ask all Marylanders to put safety first by staying off the roads during the storm, following your local weather forecasts, and heeding all warnings,” Gov. Larry Hogan said in a statement issued by the Maryland Emergency Management Agency. “I urge all Marylanders to use common sense and take all necessary precautions.”
MEMA suggests residents take the following precautions:
■ Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
■ Never run generators indoors, in closed areas or near vents.
■ Check on your elderly neighbors during and after the storm.
■ If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter or sand for traction, blankets, extra winter clothes including hats and gloves, snacks, and water in case you become stranded.
■ Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
■ Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
See more at www.mema.maryland.gov or www.aacounty.org.