Office of Communications at Emergency Operations Center

(410) 582-5636 – Charlie Gischlar through late 1/11

 

(Jan. 11, 2011, 3 p.m.) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is ready for the storm that is currently affecting the southern east coast and moving northeast.  It is lightly snowing in the counties south of Baltimore City.  Winter weather advisories are in effect through much of Maryland with one to three inches of snow is expected for the region.  Crews spent most of Monday pre-treating interstates with salt brine solution in major metropolitan regions.

“Coastal storms are challenging to predict so SHA crews pre-treated major highways with salt brine to prevent snow and ice from bonding to surfaces,” said SHA Administrator Neil J. Pedersen.  “As people head out for the commute this evening, drivers need to be extra cautious, travel at speeds appropriate for conditions and give SHA crews the space they need to keep roads safe and passable.”

SHA crews are currently stationed at maintenance facilities across the State and on active patrol in regions to the south and east where snow is falling.  The storm is forecasted to intensify by later today continue into the evening and through the night. 

Remember to buckle up and “Take it Slow on Ice and Snow.”  SHA and contractor crews will be out treating highways this afternoon and it is extremely important to stay behind salt trucks.  Before leaving the office or 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.

SHA will update the CHART website regularly throughout the storm.  Citizens can also call the winter storm hotline at 1-800-327-3125 and follow SHA on Twitter @MDSHA.

 

 

###​​