Storms Could Cause Localized Flooding, Power Outages and Closed Roads

(October 2, 2015) - The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) is preparing for heavy rain over the next several days.  SHA crews are stocking high water and road closure signs, cones, generators and tree/debris clearing equipment to respond to any damage due to heavy rains from the forecasted Nor’easter and effects from Hurricane Joaquin.  

“Much of Maryland, particularly the Eastern Shore, is expected to see heavy rain and high winds tonight and the next several days,” said SHA Administrator Greg Johnson. “We urge travelers to keep a close eye on local weather forecasts, check 511 for traffic information and use caution when driving in severe weather conditions.”

• “Turn Around-Don’t Drown” - it only takes a few inches of water to cause a vehicle to lose traction and stall; one foot will float most vehicles and two feet will carry them away (source: FEMA)

 

• Plan for extra travel time as some roads may flood and be temporarily closed;

 

• Never attempt to remove a fallen tree from the roadway, especially if there are electrical wires tangled in the branches;

 

• Should an intersection lose power and traffic signals are not operating, remember that all drivers on all approaches of the intersection must treat it as a four-way stop;

 

• Be aware of flood-prone areas and avoid if possible;

• “Know before You Go” with 5-1-1 or log onto www.md511.org for information on state roads.

SHA’s Coordinated Highway Action Response Team (CHART) traffic patrols operate 24-7 in the metro areas and will continue to assist motorists in disabled vehicles or in collisions.  SHA also deployed a team to Ocean City to support its Worcester County maintenance teams and local emergency responders.

SHA is part of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) team stationed in Reisterstown.  MEMA activated following Governor Hogan’s declaration of a State of Emergency.  Follow MEMA’s Twitter feed @MDMEMA and Facebook page for more information.