Threat Of Dangerous Commute For Baltimore-Washington Area: NWS

MARYLAND — Commuters, be advised. The Friday morning rush could be a little messy, particularly on untreated roads.

There is a "potential winter commuting hazard" on Friday, Feb. 1, the National Weather Service said in a special weather statement issued Thursday.

The hazard is snow, and the National Weather Service said areas north of Baltimore are likely to get more, while there's a lesser chance the DC area could see snow, and a smaller amount of it.

The snowfall could cause "dangerous traveling conditions, multiple accidents and extensive delays," according to the National Weather Service.

"If this threat does materialize during the Friday morning rush-hour, many untreated roads could quickly turn icy," weather officials said.

Here are the predictions, according to the special weather statement:

• 1 to 2 inches of snow possible north of Baltimore — 70 percent chance
• 1 inch of snow possible in Baltimore — 70 percent chance
• Up to 1 inch of snow possible for metro DC — 30 percent chance

The National Weather Service noted that there was a possibility of a winter threat, and it was not an expectation.

"If commuting Friday morning, be aware of the POSSIBILITY of significant travel disruptions," weather officials said.

In any event, the best course of action is to prepare in advance.

"Plan ahead by allowing for extra travel time, and consider using public transportation and telework options," the special weather statement said.

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File photo by Carly Baldwin/Patch.