Winter Storm Warning officially issued for Eastern Shore; snow totals downgraded

In its Friday afternoon Winter Storm Briefing, the National Weather Service placed most of the Eastern Shore under a Winter Storm Warning, with high confidence that hazardous conditions will begin Saturday evening and last into early Monday. Forecasters say impacts from the storm could linger well into next week as bitterly cold air settles over the region.

Precipitation is expected to begin as snow Saturday evening, becoming heavier overnight before transitioning to sleet and freezing rain Sunday morning. Temperatures are forecast to remain in the 20s, allowing snow and ice to accumulate quickly on roads, bridges, trees, and power lines.

Forecasters now expect 4-5 inches of snow for Accomack County and 3-4 for Northampton. Ice is still not expected to be an issue for the Eastern Shore.

Once the storm exits, Arctic air is expected to grip the Eastern Shore, keeping daytime temperatures near or below freezing for several days. Overnight lows will drop well below freezing, preventing snow and ice from melting and prolonging hazardous travel and outdoor conditions.

A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect Friday night into Saturday morning, with wind chills expected to fall into the single digits.

Marine conditions will also deteriorate along the Eastern Shore. A Gale Warning is in effect for the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic coastal waters, where north winds of 20 to 30 knots with gusts up to 40 knots are expected. Offshore seas could build to 8 to 12 feet.

A Freezing Spray Advisory is in effect late Friday night through Saturday morning, with ice accumulation on vessels capable of damaging equipment and reducing stability. Mariners are urged to remain in port until conditions improve.

The National Weather Service will continue to update the forecast twice daily, with the next briefing scheduled for Saturday morning.