CUMBERLAND — The latest on a winter storm expected to affect the area starting Saturday, Jan. 26, 2026:
Weather service issues storm warning
The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning from 11 p.m. Saturday to 4 a.m. Monday, forecasting 9 to 16 inches of snow that could mix with sleet and freezing rain on Sunday. Frigid temperatures were also expected.
“A prolonged period of sub-zero wind chills is likely beginning Friday evening and lasting through the middle of the week,” the weather service said.
The weather service said conditions could make travel impossible.
The weather service said snow would likely overspread the area Saturday evening and become heavy Saturday night with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hours possible. A mix with sleet or freezing rain was expected Sunday, along with low visibility.
Governor declares state of emergency
Gov. Wes Moore on Friday declared a state of emergency due to the major winter storm and dangerously cold temperatures expected to impact Maryland beginning Saturday. He also requested an emergency declaration from the federal government, which enables the federal government’s ability to expedite assistance to the state during and after the storm, if necessary.
Morrisey requests presidential disaster declaration
West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey has requested that President Donald Trump issue a Presidential Emergency Disaster Declaration for West Virginia in advance of the winter storm expected to impact all 55 counties. Morrisey declared a State of Emergency on Friday.
A Presidential Emergency Declaration would allow federal authorities to stage assets in advance of the storm. It would also allow the federal government to deliver assistance at an accelerated rate should the conditions dictate.
Garrett details preparations
Garrett County officials say fire and rescue departments throughout the county have been briefed on storm expectations and prepared to respond as needed. Each fire department is equipped with at least one four-wheel-drive vehicle, and additional resources, including all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles, will be available should conditions require specialized access.
Emergency medical services stations across the county will be fully staffed throughout the duration of the storm with a combination of volunteer personnel and career Garrett County Emergency Services staff to ensure timely and effective response to medical emergencies.
While road crews are well prepared to handle the forecasted snowfall, residents should anticipate that it will take time to clear roadways, particularly during periods of heavy snow.
Shelter locations across the county have been identified and can be opened if needs arise as the storm moves through the area. Information regarding shelters or warming centers can be obtained by calling 301-334-7280 or 301-334-1929.
Monitoring conditions
Cumberland officials said Public Works crews will be monitoring conditions and begin snow and ice removal operation as conditions warrant. Residents were urged to take precautions and limit travel once snowfall begins.
Frostburg warming center
Frostburg residents without heat or who need relief from the cold temperatures, can visit the Frostburg Police Department, located at 37 S Broadway, which will serve as a warming center beginning Saturday at 8 a.m. and will remain available 24/7 throughout the event.
Preparation, coordination key
Luke McKenzie, Mineral County’s director of Emergency Services, said the county has coordinated with Division of Highways representatives to confirm plow strategies and emergency request procedures.
“Preparation and coordination are key ahead of any significant winter weather,” McKenzie said. “We are closely monitoring forecast updates and working with our local and state partners to ensure plans are in place and resources are ready.”
ACPS activities
Allegany County Public Schools says any school-related event or activity must end by 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, as winter weather approaches. All activities for Sunday, Jan. 25, have been canceled.
Monday’s schedule will be determined at a later time.
UPMC services opening at 10 a.m.
• UPMC Western Maryland Urgent Care locations in Frostburg and South Cumberland on Industrial Boulevard will open at 10 a.m. on Sunday.
If further closings or delays occur they will be announced.
The following UPMC Western Maryland services will open at 10 a.m. on Monday:
• Frostburg Primary Care
• Frostburg Diagnostic Center
• Willowbrook Outpatient Diagnostic Center
• Johnson Heights Diagnostic Center
• Schwab Family Cancer Center
• All UPMC Western Maryland owned clinics and practices at the Johnson Heights Medical Building
• UPMC Western Maryland Primary Care Center in LaVale
• All UPMC owned offices in the Medical Arts Center at UPMC Western Maryland
• The diagnostic center located within the hospital will be open for lab, cardiology, and radiology testing as usual.
GCPS activities
Garrett County Public Schools facilities will close at 4 p.m. Saturday and remain closed on Sunday.
Frostburg State closing
Frostburg State University will be closed Jan. 25 and Jan. 26. All classes on Monday are canceled. Essential personnel should report to work as scheduled.
The university plans to reopen Tuesday. Updates will be posted on the university’s website and social media pages.
Garrett College closes
Garrett College will be closed starting 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24 and all day Sunday, Jan. 25 and Monday, Jan. 26, due to impending inclement weather. All classes and activities are canceled.
Owner responsibilities
Property owners in the city of Cumberland are responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to their properties once a snow event has ended, officials said Friday.
Dial 211 in W.Va.
West Virginia residents needing information about shelters, warming locations, food assistance, transportation resources or other non-emergency services are encouraged to contact WV 211 by dialing 211 or visiting www.wv211.org. WV 211 provides free, confidential referrals to health and human service resources statewide and can be a valuable tool before and during severe weather events.
Residents should call 911 only for emergencies.
Park closures
Jaycee Field, the duck pond area of Constitution Park and Mason’s Sports Complex will be closed during the snow event, the city said.
Luke cancels meetings
The town of Luke has canceled its council work session and meetings scheduled for Jan. 26 because of anticipated inclement weather.