(December 14, 2013-1 p.m. update) – The State Highway Administration (SHA) is continuing winter operations in Western Maryland as a winter storm moves into Central Maryland with rain likely through much of Saturday.  Motorists traveling west along I-70 through Hancock or I-68 past Sideling Hill should exercise caution while driving and remember to not pass now plows or plow trains.  Snow emergency plans are in effect in Allegany and Garrett counties.

For those who do travel, remember snow emergency plans restrict where vehicles can be parked and cars and trucks must have snow or radial tires. If your vehicle becomes disabled, move from the travel lane and onto the shoulder.

SHA crews in Central Maryland will continue to monitor roads for any potential icy patches and will respond accordingly should snow, sleet or freezing rain fall in the region.

Drivers should “Take it Slow on Ice and Snow” and reduce speeds during rain events to prevent the risk of hydroplaning.  Bridges, ramps and overpasses freeze first, so drivers should remain on guard at all times.

Click here to visit the CHART website for traffic cameras, real-time weather and road conditions.  The public can see much of what SHA operators view at the Statewide Operations Center, which is activated as SHA’s emergency operations center during storms.

Sign up for SHA’s FREE service -- the “511 Traveler Information” system.  Know Before You Go! Dial 511 from a land line or mobile phone for traffic, weather alerts and road conditions, or visit www.MD511.org.  Customers can also follow SHA on Facebook and Twitter.  For general information about SHA’s Winter Operations, click here to visit our website.

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