Drivers Urged to Plan Ahead for Potential Inclement Weather  During Evening Rush Hour Commute

(January 12, 2016) – The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) is preparing for the first wintry event of the season in the metropolitan areas beginning Tuesday afternoon through the evening rush hour.  While precipitation is expected to begin as widespread rain with no accumulation, pavement temperatures could dip below freezing creating slippery driving conditions.

“We have all been spoiled with spring-like days this winter, but it’s time to actively prepare for possible snow and ice,” said SHA Administrator Gregory C. Johnson, P.E. “Although no major accumulation is expected, any snow falling during rush hours in the metro areas can cause travel delays.  Plan ahead, watch for the latest forecasts and drive with caution.”

SHA crews are closely monitoring the storm and will be out in advance of any precipitation pre-treating major highways.  Depending on the pavement temperatures and snow intensity, SHA crews will use salt as needed to treat roads.  Overnight temperatures could cause wet roads to become icy, so drivers will need to be extremely cautious and reduce speeds.

Travelers may obtain the latest free traffic and weather information by calling 5-1-1 from a landline or a hands-free mobile device or logging onto www.MD511.org.  Maryland’s 511 service now offers free text and email alerts for most frequented routes through My Maryland 511 – simply register and set your routes and preferences on-line.

Customers may also follow SHA on Twitter @MDSHA and “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarylandStateHighwayAdministration.