Skip to Content Accessibility Information

Maryland Department of Emergency Management

MEMA Monitoring Snowstorm Expected to Hit Eastern Shore, Southern Maryland on Saturday (1/7/2017)

MEMA Monitoring Snowstorm Expected to Hit Eastern Shore, Southern Maryland on Saturday

Residents Should Be Aware and Take Appropriate Actions to Stay Safe

Listen to audio of this release here.

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 6, 2017) — A winter storm will move up the East Coast and affect Maryland early Saturday morning, bringing with it accumulating snow, wind gusts and frigid temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Watches and Warnings for portions of the lower Eastern Shore and southern Maryland. These areas could see significant snowfall, which will begin after midnight on Friday and into Saturday. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) advises all residents in and around these areas to follow weather forecasts as they are updated. In addition to snow, the majority of the State will have frigid temperatures.

MEMA is closely monitoring the storm and is coordinating preparedness and response efforts with local emergency management officials. Residents in different areas of Maryland may feel different effects from this weather system.

“Marylanders on the Eastern Shore and in Southern Maryland should stay off the roads during the storm,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “In other parts of Maryland, the winds could create the coldest wind chill of the season and increase the possibility of downed power lines. Please remain safe and remember to check on vulnerable family, friends and neighbors.”

Additionally, Maryland residents in affected areas should consider taking the following actions:

  • Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
  • Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
  • If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter or sand for traction. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
  • Never run generators indoors or in closed areas.
  • If it is safe to do so, consider clearing off roofs if significant snow has accumulated.
  • 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

Traffic, weather and power outage alerts, as well as winter preparedness information, can be accessed on the Maryland Emergency Management Agency’s website at mema.maryland.gov. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA for updated information.