Maryland braced for Monday afternoon wind gusts up to 35 mph as snow and cold linger
Gusty winds forecast as winter storm impacts continue across Maryland
Maryland is facing another round of blustery conditions Monday afternoon, with wind gusts expected to increase to roughly 30–35 mph in many locations. The stronger winds arrive as parts of the state are still dealing with the aftermath of a significant winter system that brought accumulating snow, difficult travel, and scattered power disruptions from Sunday into Monday.
Forecasts for Monday indicate that while snowfall is expected to taper off across much of central Maryland through the morning, breezy northwest winds will persist into the afternoon. Along the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic coast, gusts can be higher than inland areas, a factor that can worsen conditions in open terrain, on bridges, and near the water.
Why 30–35 mph gusts matter in a post-snow environment
Wind gusts in the 30–35 mph range are often enough to cause secondary impacts even when conditions fall short of formal high-wind thresholds. The risk increases when wind follows wet, heavy snowfall that loads tree branches and overhead lines. In those circumstances, even moderate gusts can contribute to falling limbs and isolated outages.
Winds also accelerate heat loss and can keep wind chills well below air temperature. With daytime highs expected to remain in the 30s across much of the region, gusty conditions can prolong the feeling of extreme cold for people working outside or walking to transit.
Travel: Crosswinds can affect high-profile vehicles, especially on exposed road segments and elevated spans.
Utilities: Limbs weakened by snow and ice can break under gusts, causing localized service interruptions.
Public safety: Refreezing is a concern as temperatures drop again Monday night, increasing the likelihood of icy spots on untreated surfaces.
State and local operations activated during the storm
State and local agencies have been operating under expanded winter-weather posture through the event. Multiple jurisdictions implemented snow emergency measures, and additional law-enforcement staffing was deployed for storm response. In the Baltimore region, delayed openings and virtual learning plans were used to reduce travel during the most hazardous period of the storm.
Wind and cold can remain disruptive after the heaviest snow ends, particularly when temperatures stay below freezing overnight and untreated surfaces refreeze.
What to watch through Monday night
Conditions are expected to improve gradually as steady precipitation ends, but the combination of lingering wind and dropping temperatures will keep hazards in place. Residents should monitor local advisories, allow extra time for travel, and use caution near trees and downed wires. Any leftover slush and meltwater may turn icy after dark as temperatures fall.