MARYLAND RESIDENTS SHOULD MONITOR BROADCASTS AS SEVERE WEATHER EXPECTED THROUGHOUT THE DAY

REISTERSTOWN, MD (February 28, 2011) – Maryland residents should monitor local television, radio and weather radio broadcasts throughout the day today, Monday, February 28, as there is a potential for severe weather. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in conjunction with an approaching cold front that has caused outbreaks of severe weather in the Midwest and Ohio Valley over the last 36 hours.

Much of the state is under a tornado watch until late this afternoon. A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form. Severe thunderstorms also are possible throughout the day. Additionally, the National Weather Service issued a flood watch in Garrett County until 7 p.m. tonight.

Residents and media members should check the following website to learn about current National Weather Service watches and warnings throughout the state:http://www.weather.gov/alerts-beta/md.php?x=1.

For information on how to prepare for severe weather, go to www.mema.state.md.usand click on the Be Prepared tab on the left side of the home page. That will display a menu with preparedness information for a variety of emergencies. Preparedness information also is available for www.ready.gov.

If you are traveling during a storm, please use extreme caution.  Drivers should never try to drive through high water, even with four wheel drive vehicles.  Rushing water is extremely powerful, causing loss of control of a vehicle, putting drivers and passengers at risk for drowning.
Additionally, drivers must avoid downed wires and trees and stay alert for falling debris in the roadway. All loads should be secured, preventing debris from flying out of pickup trucks and other truck beds.  The State Highway Administration recommends delaying travel during the storm.  Log onto www.roads.maryland.gov and click “CHART” to view traffic cameras and current traffic conditions.