MDOT SHA PREPARES FOR COASTAL STORM THAT COULD IMPACT PARTS OF THE STATE TONIGHT AND TOMORROW

MDOT SHA Logo

MDOT SHA Logo

​(July 9, 2020) - The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is preparing for a potential storm that could impact parts of Maryland tonight and tomorrow. High winds, flooding and rip currents are expected in parts of the Eastern Shore and southern Maryland, according to the National Weather Service.    

Statewide, MDOT SHA crews have been checking drains and inlets and clearing them of obstructions - such as trash, leaves and tree limbs - to ensure proper drainage. Additionally, crews are inspecting emergency response equipment, including high water signs, chain saws, loaders and dump trucks.     

MDOT SHA advises motorists to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” as a majority of flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Two feet of rapidly moving water can float a bus and six inches is capable of knocking a person to the ground.

MDOT SHA also asks motorists to take the following precautions:

  • Avoid downed or damaged power and transmission lines as these could still be live;   
  • Be aware of your surroundings and look for fallen trees or tree limbs;    
  • Remain alert for wild animals, such as deer, that may flee dangerous areas and cross roadways;   
  • If you encounter an intersection where traffic signals are without power, treat all directions of the intersection as a four-way stop.     

MDOT SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews as well as our customers. Drivers need to stay alert, focus on driving and, look for reduced speed limits, as well as other driving pattern changes. Drive like you work here and slow down in construction zones. 

For a list of all major MDOT SHA projects, go to Project Portal. Visit our homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov.

Editor’s Note

MDOT SHA has a record number of highway construction projects underway across the state to reduce congestion and improve safety.  From intersection improvements to widening and new interchange construction, MDOT SHA is investing in projects to enhance the commute and daily travel for millions of Marylanders.  MDOT SHA maintains more than 2,500 bridges and 17,000 miles of non-toll state roads – the interstate, US and state numbered routes in Maryland’s 23 counties.

###