Road pre-treatment complete, Marylanders warned to avoid travel Sunday afternoon and evening

Annapolis, MD—Governor Larry Hogan today provided a winter weather update that is expected to bring snowfall to much of the state this afternoon. Winter storm warnings are in effect for western Maryland, and winter weather advisories are in effect throughout central Maryland and parts of southern Maryland.

The National Weather Service predicts initial snowfall rates could be high — up to an inch per hour — as a line of rain and snow pushes steadily from southeast to northwest. Transitions to a winter mix are expected to occur in the early evening for southern Maryland and the upper east coast, and later in the evening for central and western Maryland.

“Our preparations for today’s winter weather are complete, and we ask Marylanders to avoid travel if possible for the remainder of the day,” Governor Hogan said. “Keeping the roads clear not only keeps you safe, but also gives crews and first responders room to carry out their duties. We will continue to monitor winter weather closely and provide updates as the day progresses. »

Mobilization of State Agencies:

• The State Highway Administration (SHA) completed road pre-treatment Saturday morning and will begin launching CHART patrols today at 1 p.m. Marylanders can track real-time SHA activity here.
• The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has identified potential bus diversion routes, which will be implemented as needed. MARC is already operating on the R schedule Monday in conjunction with the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. MTA storm response teams will monitor all stations to clear buildups for the safety of guests and members of the team.
• At Thurgood Marshall International Airport in Baltimore/Washington, winter weather crews are ready to implement de-icing protocols. Storm response equipment was inspected and prepared, and chemical and fuel inventory was checked. Passengers are encouraged to plan to arrive at least two hours before the scheduled departure time and to check with their air carrier for any updated flight schedules.
• Note that Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) offices and VEIP stations are closed tomorrow for the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

Visit md511.org for traffic incident updates, text “MdReady” (or “MdListo” for Spanish text) to 211MD1 to receive emergency alerts, and visit mdem.maryland.gov for information on storm preparedness and disaster supply kits.

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