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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

Snow, Ice, Freezing Rain, Frigid Temperatures to Affect Maryland this Weekend

MEMA is Monitoring Storm, Closely Coordinating with State Agencies, National Weather Service

Click here to listen to audio of this release.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 18, 2019) — Winter weather is expected to affect the Mid-Atlantic and New England region beginning tomorrow, Saturday January 19, 2019.  According to the National Weather Service, here is what Maryland residents can expect:

  • The system will bring a mix of snow, ice, and freezing rain to most of our State.
  • Expect snow, sleet, and freezing rain accumulation which will make traveling conditions dangerous, with a couple of inches of snow and ice accumulation for the western and central portion of the State.
  • Winds will affect the state this weekend with gusts up to 30-40 mph.
  • Plan for potential power outages and flying debris.
  • On Sunday night, temperatures will dip into the dangerously low single digits.

“The forecast and track of the storm can change at any time, and that could potentially mean worsening weather and hazards for residents in parts of our State,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Plan for power outages and prepare your family accordingly.
Make sure you monitor the weather forecast, heed all official warnings, and pay attention to state and local emergency management and transportation officials.”

As the storm moves out of the region, a mass of frigid air will be moving in and bringing dangerously cold temperatures. With peak gusts around 40 mph, the expected wind chill will also make conditions hazardous making it feel well below zero degrees Fahrenheit throughout Maryland.

Extreme cold weather can lead to serious health issues.The Maryland Department of Health’s Office of Preparedness and Response has an array of helpful information about extreme cold weather and how to protect yourself and your family here: https://preparedness.health.maryland.gov/Pages/resources_cold.aspx

MEMA advises Maryland residents to take the following actions:

  • Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
  • Plan for power outages and prepare accordingly.
  • Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here.
  • Never run generators indoors, in closed areas, or near vents.
  • Check on your elderly neighbors during and after the storm.
  • If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter or sand for traction, blankets, extra winter clothes including hats and gloves, snacks, and water in case you become stranded.
  • Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
  • Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
  • Dress in several layers when venturing outside in the extreme cold.  Frostbite and Hypothermia can set in in minutes.

MEMA is closely monitoring the storm and will continue coordinating efforts with local emergency management officials and state agencies.

In addition to these tips, please check out this winter preparedness tip video (bit.ly/Winter-Preparedness-Tips) on MEMA’s YouTube Channel.

Traffic, weather, and power outage alerts, as well as winter preparedness information, can be accessed on MEMA’s website. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Facebook for updated information.

 

 

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CONTACT:

Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410.446.3333

Jorge E. Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443.381.3518

Note to Press: MEMA Staff will be available for interviews during this incident.