Wet Snow and Scheduled Lane Closures to Impact Baltimore Commute This Thursday

Weather Impact: Rain Transitioning to Wet Snow

Commuters in the Baltimore region should prepare for a challenging drive this Thursday, March 12, 2026. A strong cold front is moving through the area, causing temperatures to drop sharply throughout the day. While the morning may begin with rain, meteorologists at WBAL-TV 11 report that the precipitation is expected to transition into wet snow by the afternoon and evening hours. This shift will likely lead to reduced visibility and slippery conditions on major arteries, especially as the mercury falls toward freezing. Drivers are encouraged to complete their errands early and allow extra travel time for the evening rush hour.

Major Highway Roadworks and Lane Closures

Significant construction projects continue to impact the Baltimore Beltway and harbor crossings. Key updates for today include:

• I-695 (Baltimore Beltway): Motorists should expect daytime lane closures on the Inner Loop between MD 122 (Security Boulevard) and MD 26 (Liberty Road) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Ongoing work for the TSMO project from Pikesville to Towson involves long-term lane shifts and concrete barriers that may cause intermittent slowing.
• I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel): Overnight lane closures remain in effect through tonight for maintenance. While lanes are typically reopened by the morning peak, residual congestion is expected near the tunnel approaches.
• Francis Scott Key Bridge (I-695): As a reminder, the Key Bridge remains closed as reconstruction efforts proceed. Traffic continues to be diverted to the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel and the I-895 Harbor Tunnel, both of which are seeing higher-than-normal volumes during peak hours.

Public Transit Alerts and Service Changes

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has issued several alerts for Thursday travelers. Due to the forecasted weather, MARC Train riders on the Camden, Brunswick, and Penn Lines should monitor for potential weather-related delays this afternoon. In the city, the CityLink Pink line remains on detour, and the Light Rail continues to operate at reduced speeds in certain segments for safety. Commuters using local bus services are advised to check the MTA mobile app for real-time tracking, as freezing rain or snow may cause localized diversions.

City Streets and Pothole Advisory

With the current freeze-thaw cycle, Baltimore is in the height of the 2026 pothole season. Heavy damage has been reported on I-83 (Jones Falls Expressway) and surface streets such as Falls Road and Cold Spring Lane. Drivers should remain vigilant for new craters that may have formed overnight and avoid sudden swerving, which can lead to accidents in wet weather.