(October 29, 2012 – 6:30 p.m.) – As Hurricane Sandy strengthens in the Mid-Atlantic region, more than 1,200 State Highway Administration (SHA) crews are responding to flooded roads, downed trees and signal outages along state highways. As nightfall approaches, SHA urges people to stay home.

During the last few hours, snow has begun to fall in Garrett County, which is in Snow Emergency.  Crews in Western Maryland are applying salt as needed.

Major bridge crossings are also closed due to high winds including the US 50 and MD 90 Bridges in Ocean City.  The Maryland Transportation Authority closed the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, the US 40 Hatem Bridge and the I-695 Key Bridge.  Several other bridges have wind restrictions in place.

SHA reports that more than two dozen signals are out either due to storm or power issues.  SHA reminds anyone who chooses to drive that a new law took effect Oct. 1 requiring drivers to treat an intersection without power to the signal system as a four-way stop.

“With a loss of power, not only will signals not be operating, overhead lighting will be dark and pedestrian signals will not operate,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters.  “Staying off of Maryland roadways tonight is the responsible thing to do.  It also allows crews to respond to emergencies.”

Earlier this afternoon, transportation and law enforcement agencies lowered the speed limit on interstate and US routes to 45 mph.  The lower speed limit applies to all travelers including medical personnel, emergency responders and utility crews.

To view the storm from the safety of your own home, see below:

• By Internet: View traffic cameras (where there is power) at www.traffic.maryland.gov, www.MD511.org, or www.roads.maryland.gov and click on the CHART icon.  Additionally, www.traffic.maryland.gov has up to 600 camera views and traffic information.
• By Phone: Citizens may call 511 or toll-free 1-855-GOMD511 from a landline or mobile phone. 
• Be Social: Follow SHA on Twitter @MDSHA or “Like” Maryland State Highway Administration on Facebook.