(January 26, 2011 – 8 a.m.) – More than 1,100 people are actively fighting today’s storm, which is dropping a mix of snow, sleet and rain across much of Maryland.  Crews from the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) and Transportation Authority (MDTA) developed snow emergency plans last night in anticipation of the storm beginning as a rain event, and deployed crews hours prior to the morning rush hour.  With the storm beginning as a snow event, managers immediately dispatched additional crews.  Roadway conditions vary across the State.  Drivers will find areas of snow coverage on major interstates and secondary routes in the Baltimore metropolitan area, as well as areas north and west.  Road conditions improve south and east of Baltimore.

“We’re asking Maryland motorists to partner with us as we battle what is forecasted to be an all-day and night event.  Expect to go well below the posted speed limit and give yourself plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front to prevent unnecessary, sudden braking,” said State Highway Administrator Neil J. Pedersen. “SHA crews out treating roadways are reporting motorists driving too fast for conditions in some cases, so please remember to go slow in ice and snow.”

Crews will remain out throughout the day, especially as snow is expected to intensify between 4 and 11 p.m. today.  With pavement temperatures hovering just at the freezing mark, crews primarily will be treating roadways with salt, which is very effective in melting ice and snow.  Motorists should remember that bridges, ramps and overpasses do freeze first.

SHA encourages motorists to stay behind and never pass snow plows.  The untreated highway is ahead of the snow plow and the plowed, treated highway is behind, so “Don’t Crowd the Plow.” Please remember to clear all the snow off of your vehicle before driving.  This includes the headlights, all windows, hood, trunk and roof of your vehicle.

For updates on roads conditions, log onto www.roads.maryland.gov and click on “CHART” to view live traffic cameras, average speed maps and crash and incident listings.
                                        
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