Columbia Under Freezing Rain Advisory; Icy Roads in Forecast

The National Weather Service has issued a freezing rain advisory for much of the Baltimore-Washington area, stating that traveling Monday morning may be treacherous.

The freezing rain advisory is in effect from 10 p.m. Sunday until 9 a.m. Monday, according to the weather service. Freezing rain will start falling overnight and turn into regular rain by midday Monday, according to the weather service.

“With pavement temperatures below freezing, any overnight or early morning precipitation will likely cause icy conditions—making driving extremely dangerous,” State Highway Administrator Melinda B. Peters said in a statement Sunday.

“Consider taking transit or working from home while we take care of making the roads safe for travel,” Peters said. Those taking public transportation should be extra careful walking to and from transit stations.

The following areas are under the freezing rain advisory: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties.

Highway crews were pre-treating major roads and interstates with salt brine Sunday night to prevent ice accumulation and planned to use salt and sand as needed to deice roads and provide traction.

The following areas may be coated with a thin glaze of ice, officials advised:

• Vehicles
• Bridges
• Untreated roads
• Shaded areas
• Untreated sidewalks

The weather service advised slowing down, being prepared for slippery roads and using additional caution.

Related: How to Drive on Icy Roads

State Highway Administration officials are keeping an eye on major roads and interstates. Photo Credit: State Highway Administration.