First Winter Storm of 2019 Could Bring Accumulating Snow

REISTERSTOWN, Md. — An incoming winter storm will likely bring accumulating snow to most of Maryland beginning this Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm watches for several counties in Maryland and expects to issue winter storm advisories and warnings as the storm gets closer.

“With the potential for our first statewide winter weather event of 2019, I ask all Marylanders to put safety first by staying off the roads during the storm, following your local weather forecasts, and heeding all warnings,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Our state agencies and employees are working diligently in preparation for the storm to keep our roads passable, but for a large portion of the state, the potential of accumulating snow is a real concern. As we prepare for this winter weather, I urge all Marylanders to use common sense and take all necessary precautions.”

Snow is expected to begin falling Saturday afternoon for most of our state and continue into Sunday with some areas in Maryland readying to see 3 to 6 inches of accumulating snow. Less snow is predicted to affect the western portions of the Eastern Shore of Maryland but the accumulation forecast for Maryland could change as the storm gets closer.

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) advises all residents to follow weather forecasts as they are updated and pay attention to your local emergency management officials, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA), and the MD Department of Transportation (MDOT). In addition to snow, the majority of the State will see temperatures around the freezing mark during the event with lows on Sunday in the mid-20s.

“MEMA is closely monitoring the storm and is coordinating preparedness efforts with local emergency management officials and state agencies,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Residents in different areas of Maryland may feel different effects from this weather system, so stay vigilant and monitor the storm through its duration,” he concluded. It is possible that lingering effects of the storm and below freezing temperatures will affect Monday’s morning commute and may cause school closings or delays.

MEMA advises Maryland residents to take the following actions:

• Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
• Never run generators indoors, in closed areas, or near vents.
• Check on your elderly neighbors during and after the storm.
• If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter or sand for traction, and blankets, extra winter clothes including hats and gloves, snacks, and water in case you become stranded.
• Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
• Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here.

In addition to these tips, please check out this winter preparedness tip video(bit.ly/Winter-Preparedness-Tips) on our YouTube Channel.

Traffic, weather, and power outage alerts, as well as winter preparedness information, can be accessed on MEMA’s website. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter, LinkedIn,YouTube and Facebook for updated information.