Why did the National Weather Service issue snow squall alerts in Maryland at 4 AM?

The alerts were issued around 4 a.m. to warn motorists about fast-moving snow squalls that could cause sudden whiteout conditions and dangerous driving hazards.

What are snow squalls and why are they dangerous?

Snow squalls are short, intense bursts of snow that drastically reduce visibility and can lead to rapid snow accumulation, creating hazardous driving conditions and potential pileups.

Did residents in Maryland complain about the early morning snow alerts?

Yes, many residents complained on social media, finding the early morning timing and intensity of the snow squall alerts disruptive.

Home / Weather / Maryland Wakes to Unexpected Snow Warnings

Maryland Wakes to Unexpected Snow Warnings

2 Jan

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Summary

National Weather Service issued snow squall alerts around 4 a.m.
Alerts aimed to warn motorists of sudden whiteout conditions.
Residents complained about the early morning and tornado-like alerts.

Maryland Wakes to Unexpected Snow Warnings

National Weather Service alerts jolted many Maryland residents awake around 4 a.m. on January 2, 2026, warning of fast-moving snow squalls. These alerts were designed to inform motorists about rapidly deteriorating conditions, including sudden whiteout visibility and wind gusts up to 35 mph.

The Baltimore/Washington office of the NWS had anticipated a potent line of snow showers moving into Maryland between 3 and 5 a.m. The intent was to warn both those already traveling and early morning commuters about the potential for dangerous, short-lived bursts of snow.