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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

Motorists Urged to Stay Off Roads Friday Afternoon and Make Preparations

MOTORISTS URGED TO STAY OFF ROADS FRIDAY AFTERNOON AND MAKE PREPARATIONS AS SEVERE WINTER STORM APPROACHES MARYLAND

MEMA IS ACTIVELY COORDINATING RESOURCES AHEAD OF POTENTIAL BLIZZARD CONDITIONS

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 22, 2016) — A high-impact winter storm continues to head directly towards Maryland. Snowfall is expected to start early Friday afternoon in parts of the State and the National Weather Service predicts that the height of the storm will begin soon after the snow’s onset. Areas of Maryland could experience blizzard conditions that include wind gusts and blowing snow. Motorists are urged to stay off the roads as soon as snowfall begins if at all possible. Driving will be hazardous almost immediately after the storm’s onset due to the fast rate of snowfall.

Governor Larry Hogan has signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency in order to activate and coordinate all available State resources. A state of emergency is also an indicator to residents that this will be a significant winter storm and that they should take precautions.

“Now is the time for Marylanders to stay at home and off the roads,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “This is the safe choice. It will also allow emergency services vehicles to maneuver and road crews to begin the long process of clearing highways and streets.”

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency has been coordinating resources in order to manage incidents that could arise due to the storm. This includes working with local officials to mobilize high-clearance vehicles, emergency supplies, and personnel in areas and communities that could be affected most by the storm.

“This heavy, wet snow coupled with windy conditions could create additional problems, such as towering snow banks and power outages,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “The public also has a part to play in storm preparedness and safety. It is essential that residents be prepared to shelter in their homes, charge all communications devices now, and check on family and friends throughout this snowstorm.”

In addition to staying off the roads and monitoring the weather and power outages, residents should take the following actions:

  • Keep devices charged so you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information and be able to contact family and friends.
  • Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated. If snow is accumulating on your rooftop, consider removing snow if it is safe to do so.
  • Avoid travel after the snow starts. If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter, or sand for traction, and extra drinks and snacks in case you get stuck in traffic. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
  • Check on friends, neighbors, and relatives, especially the elderly or vulnerable residents who may have trouble staying warm or maneuvering on icy surfaces.
  • Residents living near coastal areas should be prepared to experience moderate coastal flooding and waves due to the high wind.
  • Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutages.aspx

MEMA will be regularly updating their website with winter preparedness information, traffic, weather, and power outage alerts. Residents can find all of this information at mema.maryland.gov. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.