(June 1, 2012) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is urging motorists to use extreme caution driving as the National Weather Service is forecasting potential severe weather for much of Maryland.  Some counties may experience strong storms and high winds by the afternoon rush hour.

The weather service says the storms could produce high winds, flash flooding, hail and the possibility of tornadoes.  These storms could bring down trees or tree limbs, flood roads, cause power lines to fall and create traffic signal outages.  Motorists should monitor the weather carefully and use 511 for the latest information.

“It is imperative that motorists heed warnings that are issued by the weather service and slow down and stay alert when on the road or delay trips until storms have passed,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters.  “We want everyone to arrive at their destination safely.”

Here are some things to remember about driving in severe weather:

 

• Drivers should NOT drive through standing water.  “Turn around Don't Drown;”
• High winds may cause downed trees and power lines (don’t go near sparking wires);
• Use low-beam headlights when wipers are in operation;
• Delay trips during severe weather; and
• Remember to buckle up.

SHA recommends that all highway users monitor local radio, TV and internet for the latest weather forecast for changing conditions and use 511 (1-855-GO-MD511) or www.md511.org for the latest real-time travel information.

     
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