WEEKEND WINTER STORM HEADING TOWARD MARYLAND

ACCUMULATING SNOW, HIGH WINDS, AND COLD TEMPERATURES LIKELY FOR ENTIRE STATE BEGINNING FRIDAY

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 20, 2016) — A low-pressure winter storm system is heading toward Maryland and will likely bring heavy snow, high winds, and cold temperatures to the State. The storm is expected to begin Friday with the heaviest precipitation occurring Friday afternoon through Saturday. The National Weather Service expects most of the State to be affected and has already issued a blizzard watch for central and southern Maryland and a winter storm watch for western Maryland beginning Friday at noon and going through Saturday evening. In addition to potential blizzard conditions which correlate to gusty winds and low visibility, the National Weather Service has indicated that minor to moderate coastal flooding could occur.

Residents should make preparations now and are urged to stay off the roads during the height of the storm.

“State agencies are coordinating all available resources to prepare to clear roads and manage incidents that may be caused by this significant storm but Marylanders should also take action now,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Before the storm hits, make sure you have supplies at home and communications devices charged. Be a good neighbor—check on relatives, friends, and those who may be more vulnerable to cold and a big winter storm.”

MEMA and other state agencies are preparing to assist local responders with any issues related to the storm. MEMA has hosted conference calls with the National Weather Service, state agencies, local emergency management offices, and other partners to coordinate response efforts.

“This has the potential to be a serious storm affecting a wide area,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “We are coordinating with State and local officials to ensure that any area that is significantly impacted by this storm will be able to respond effectively and promote resident safety.”

In addition to staying off the roads and monitoring the weather and power outages, residents should take the following actions:

• Keep devices charged so you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information and be able to contact family and friends.

• Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated. If snow is accumulating on your rooftop, consider removing snow if it is safe to do so.

• If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter, or sand for traction, and extra drinks and snacks in case you get stuck in traffic. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.

• Check on friends, neighbors, and relatives, especially the elderly or vulnerable residents who may have trouble staying warm or maneuvering on icy surfaces.

• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutages.aspx

Additionally, traffic, weather, and power outage alerts, as well as winter preparedness information, can be accessed on the Maryland Emergency Management Agency’s website atmema.maryland.gov. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/MDMEMA.