BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Light snow coating some parts of Maryland, ahead of a big storm expected this weekend.

Up to an inch of snow was repored in some areas, creating icy conditions. Drivers should use caution.

The Baltimore City Department of Transportation will be out salting roads.

DOT will activate its Emergency Operations Center at midnight tonight to prepare for the morning commute. @MayorSRB — Baltimore City DOT (@BmoreCityDOT) January 21, 2016

Meanwhile, a Blizzard Watch is in effect until Sunday, as a major winter storm eyes up the Mid-Atlantic.

The storm is expected to bring crippling conditions with the potential of more than a foot of snow.

“The season’s first significant winter storm is becoming more and more imminent and is expected to have a big, if not major, impact on the mid-Atlantic region,” says Meteorologist Chelsea Ingram.

RELATED: [LIVE BLOG] Major Snow Storm Brewing For Baltimore and East Coast | Current Conditions | TIPS: Planning Ahead

The worst effects will most likely be felt starting later on Friday and continue all the way into Saturday.

“State agencies are coordinating all available resources to prepare to clear roads and manage incidents that may be caused by this significant storm but Marylanders should also take action now,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Before the storm hits, make sure you have supplies at home and communications devices charged. Be a good neighbor—check on relatives, friends, and those who may be more vulnerable to cold and a big winter storm.”

12- 24 inches of heavy snowfall will likely be coupled with strong wind gusts of greater than 50 mph for coastal communities.

WEATHER ALERTS:

BLIZZARD WATCH in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday

Anne Arundel; Central and Southeast Howard; Central and Southeast Montgomery; Charles; Northwest Howard; Northwest Montgomery; Prince Georges; Carroll; Frederick; Northern Baltimore; Northwest Harford; Southeast Harford; Southern Baltimore; Calvert; St. Marys

RELATED: What Is A Blizzard Watch?

WINTER STORM WATCH in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday

Central and Eastern Allegany; Extreme Western Allegany; Washington; Garrett

BEACH EROSION/TIDAL FLOODING:

This will contribute to beach erosion and coastal flooding (especially during high tide).

SNOW ACCUMULATION:

As far as snow accumulation maps are concerned, 12- 24 inches seems likely. Exact numbers remain uncertain at this time as the difference between seeing a few inches of snow or well over a foot in portions of the mid-Atlantic region, may be less than 100 miles. If the storm stays on track, it is possible that we could see several inches of snow. Snowfall amounts will depend highly on the track of the storm; a shift of even 50 miles would result in changes.

WINTER WEATHER OUTLOOK/TIMING:

Thursday:

Calm, and not too harsh with temps in the mid upper 30’s.

Friday- Saturday Night

Snow arrives mid-afternoon on Friday. Conditions are expected to deteriorate Friday afternoon with the heaviest snow, strongest winds occurring thorough Saturday night.

WINDS:

Northeast 10 to 15 MPH on Friday. Northeast winds will increase to 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph Friday night then shift north Saturday through Saturday night.

Stay up-to-date with the latest First Warning WX forecast by downloading the CBS Baltimore App.