Scattered rain and snow threaten Maryland's weekend plans

In Maryland, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued ahead of a forecast for freezing rain, expected to impact various regions including Baltimore and counties such as Anne Arundel, Carroll, and Frederick. This advisory will be in effect on the morning of December 24, 2024, from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. National Weather Service officials anticipate light freezing rain to begin early Tuesday morning, followed by a mix of rain and freezing rain. Drivers have been warned to exercise caution on the roads as icy conditions may develop. The extreme weather comes as the coldest air of the season is expected to arrive over the weekend, with temperatures plummeting to the teens by Sunday night. Baltimore City has declared a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert, urging vulnerable residents to seek shelter during this dangerously cold period. The city has made available various cold weather shelters and warming centers to assist those in need. Previous winter weather events in Maryland have included the season's first snowfall on November 22, which resulted in no accumulation, and blizzard-like conditions in parts of Western Maryland on December 5 that left several inches of snow. The Maryland Highway Administration is fully prepared for the winter conditions, having stocked up on significant amounts of salt and ensuring that their snow removal vehicles are ready to deploy as needed. As Christmas Day approaches, while rain and snow showers are expected to linger, it appears that the day itself will remain dry with partly cloudy skies and lower temperatures. This winter weather advisory underscores the unpredictability of Maryland's winter climate and the importance of being prepared for sudden weather changes as the winter season fully sets in.