WEATHER ALERT: Wind Advisory for Maryland

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for much of Maryland Friday afternoon.

The wind advisory is in effect from noon to midnight on Friday, Jan. 30, and it calls for winds that could gust up to 45 mph. There is also a gale warning on the Chesapeake Bay.

As a precaution, weather officials said people should make sure any outdoor furniture is tied down or secured.

Trees and power lines may be damaged across the region, according to the National Weather Service. To report down or sparking wires, contact BGE at 877-778-2222.

The wind advisory applies to the following areas:

• Anne Arundel County
• Baltimore County
• Carroll County
• Frederick County
• Harford County
• Howard County
• Montgomery County
• Prince George’s County

Drivers of high-profile vehicles—vans, trucks and SUVs—may face challenges due to the wind, the weather service advised.

The Maryland Transportation Authority said wind restrictions may be possible around the area’s bridges; drivers can check the Maryland Transportation Authority’s Twitter feed for the latest updates. At approximately 7:45 a.m., the authority issued a wind warning for the Nice Bridge, meaning drivers of motorcycles, trailers and vehicles with roof racks should use caution.

In addition to the wind—which is forecast to be 15 to 25 mph with the potential to reach 45 mph—the weather service reports below-freezing temperatures could result in icy patches on the roads.

Photo Credit: Union City Patch.