A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for Southern Maryland, including Calvert County, from Saturday evening through Monday morning as a major winter weather system approaches the Mid-Atlantic region. The National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office forecasts heavy snow mixed with sleet and freezing rain, with a high likelihood of at least 5 inches of accumulation and over 10 inches possible in some areas. Ice buildup poses an additional risk, particularly south of Highway 50.
The watch covers portions of DC, central, northeast, northern, and southern Maryland, along with central and northern Virginia. Snow is expected to spread across the area Saturday evening, with heavy rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour possible late Saturday night into Sunday. A transition to mixed precipitation including sleet or freezing rain may occur Sunday, increasing icing potential in southern zones. Visibility could drop to one-quarter mile or less at times during peak snowfall. Frigid conditions will accompany the storm, with wind chills in the teens and single digits starting Friday evening and persisting through mid-next week, including possible sub-zero wind chills.
Gov. Wes Moore declared a State of Preparedness Jan. 21, 2026, directing the Maryland Department of Emergency Management to coordinate state agencies for potential impacts on roads, transportation, and public safety. “By declaring a State of Preparedness in Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts related to the incoming weather system,” Moore stated. “The safety and security of our residents is our top priority. Please remain vigilant, listen to authorities, use common sense, and complete emergency preparations as soon as possible.”
The declaration facilitates swift response, information sharing, and coordination among emergency management, transportation, law enforcement, and public health agencies. The Maryland National Guard prepositioned personnel and specialized vehicles in Western Maryland, Central Maryland, and the Eastern Shore for rapid assistance.
In Calvert County, the Department of Public Safety issued an animal safety alert Jan. 22, 2026, due to forecasted cold from Friday, Jan. 23, through Tuesday, Feb. 3. Owners must bring dogs and cats indoors or provide heated shelter against winds. Livestock requires accessible shelter to maintain core body temperature, extra food for calorie recovery, constant monitoring for distress, and unfrozen water. Noncompliance may lead to fines up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail. Reports go to Animal Control at 410-535-1600, ext. 2526 (weekdays 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) or nonemergency 410-535-3491 after hours.
Impacts include very difficult travel, potential delays or closures, and hazards to the Monday morning commute. Officials urge preparations such as stocking groceries, medicines, emergency car kits with batteries, flashlight, and blanket, refueling or charging vehicles, and checking on vulnerable individuals, pets, and livestock. Stay informed via official sources, sign up for alerts, and follow mdem.maryland.gov, @MDMEMA on X, or MdReady app for outages.
The storm aligns with broader Mid-Atlantic threats, where some forecasts indicate 6-12 inches regionally, though Southern Maryland specifics emphasize mixed hazards and higher icing south of major highways. Residents should monitor updates at weather.gov/lwx.