(March 3, 2015) – The evening rush hours will be affected by a winter storm, making the afternoon commute challenging, likely longer and potentially dangerous due to icy conditions. The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) is urging motorists to closely monitor weather forecasts and adjust commuting schedules accordingly.

“This storm has the potential to significantly impact today’s rush hour with a snow and ice combination,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters. “If at all possible, we are asking people to avoid driving during this storm so crews can treat roadways efficiently. The more vehicles along the road, the harder it is for crews. If there is a collision, our trucks get stuck in the same traffic jam as everyone else and snow and ice will build up in the travel lanes.”

 

Travelers may obtain the latest free traffic and weather information by calling 5-1-1 from a landline or a hands-free mobile device or logging onto www.MD511.org or www.traffic.md.gov Maryland’s 511 service now offers free text and email alerts for most frequented routes through 511Direct – simply register and set your routes and preferences on-line.

Customers may also follow SHA on Twitter @MDSHA and “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarylandStateHighwayAdministration.