(March 25, 2013) – Deployed overnight, Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) crews are ready for Monday morning’s commute. The forecasted precipitation has begun in parts of Maryland this morning, and drivers are reminded to be prepared for changing conditions. SHA crews will salt and plow as needed, but motorists must modify driving behavior by slowing down, using caution, allowing plenty of distance between vehicles, and allowing plenty of time for travel.
“Weather conditions are predicted to change throughout the morning,” stated SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters. “The wintry mix may slow traffic and create slick conditions. SHA asks that drivers remain alert for road crews and emergency responders.”
More than 2,700 personnel (state and contract) and 2,400 pieces of equipment are available statewide and 330,000 tons of salt (more than 90 percent capacity) available at salt barns and salt domes across the State.
Know Before You Go. SHA provides a new FREE service the “511 Traveler Information” system. To Know Before You Go! Simply dial 511 from a land line or mobile phone for traffic, weather alerts and road conditions. For internet access, visit
www.MD511.org. While there, register with My511 to customize your reports on your most frequent routes and areas of interest.
Before leaving home, log onto
www.roads.maryland.gov and click the CHART icon for the latest road conditions, live traffic cameras and a variety of information to help with travel decisions and planning. Citizens can also follow SHA on Facebook and Twitter. Call 511 or visit
www.md511.org for the latest travel information. If your vehicle becomes disabled, make every effort to move from the travel lane and onto the shoulder.
For additional tips on preparing for winter storms, residents can visit
www.mema.state.md.us, click on the “Be Prepared” button on the left side of the screen and click on the “Winter Storms” link. There also are tips for general preparedness that are helpful for any type of emergency.
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