Mayor Brandon M. Scott to Deploy Snow Team for Expected Snow Storm
BALTIMORE, MD — The Baltimore City Department of Transportation is preparing for a winter snow storm that is expected to impact the Baltimore region starting on Sunday.
According to the latest weather forecasts, accumulating snow is expected in Baltimore City beginning early Sunday afternoon. The storm is forecast to bring snow, sleet, freezing rain and perhaps plain rain to the city on Sunday and continue throughout the day on Monday.
“With snow and icy conditions expected throughout this storm, our crews will be working hard for a quick completion of plowing and salting along major roads and residential streets,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “But I encourage all residents to take this storm seriously by staying home if at all possible, and taking all necessary precautions if you absolutely must travel, especially during the Monday morning commute.”
The Baltimore City Snow Team has been readying snow equipment throughout the week and has replenished city salt domes. Crews have also pre-treated city gateways/primary roadways with salt brine in preparation for the storm. The snow team will activate at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 31, 2021, and will closely monitor weather and roadway conditions.
“With over 15,000 tons of salt on hand and nearly 300 pieces of equipment plus a full complement of contractor forces, the city is fully prepared for the winter weather ahead,” said Department of Transportation Director Steve Sharkey. “But we need residents to avoid traveling during the storm so that we can treat city streets more efficiently, because any vehicles that become disabled obstruct the movement of plows and hinder our removal efforts.”
Winter Weather Tips
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared for inclement weather. Motorists are advised not to travel during the storm, but the Department of Transportation recommends that anyone who must travel take the following precautions:
- Make sure your gutters are cleared of leaves. You don’t want leaves to block the flow of rainwater that may freeze.
- Be sure to check your supply of abrasives – deicer, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter – and get more if necessary.
- Turn off all outdoor water faucets.
- Find your snow shovel and make sure it is adequate for another snow season.
- Dress properly for the weather, including a hat, scarf, coat, gloves, socks, and water-resistant shoes or boots.
- If driving, do so cautiously and maintain safe speeds and distances from other vehicles.
- Reduce speeds while driving in winter weather and allow extra stopping distance for everyone’s safety. Remember that posted speed limits are based on ideal weather conditions and not recommended for snow.
- Know if any phases of the city’s “Snow Emergency Plan” have been implemented, as this could affect parking along designated snow emergency routes. Information can be found on the city’s snow page at baltimorecity.gov.
- Be aware that conditions can change rapidly, and winter precipitation can cause roadways to become slick, especially on bridges, ramps and overpasses.
- Motorists should not “crowd the plow” by staying behind working snow vehicles and allowing them plenty of space to operate.
COVID-19 Testing Sites
Testing sites will make every attempt to remain open, but may need to close due to adverse weather conditions. For status updates please visit coronavirus.baltimorecity.gov/testing or follow the Baltimore City Health Department’s social media accounts for updates before coming to a testing site.
Winter Shelters
In addition to the city’s snow operations, a winter shelter declaration has been issued in Baltimore City which will remain in effect until 9:00a.m. on Wednesday, February 3rd. Residents in need of shelter should call 443-984-9540 or dial 211. The transportation schedule, along with additional details can be found on the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services website at: Winter Shelter | Mayor's Office of Homeless Services (baltimorecity.gov).
For updated weather forecasts and traffic conditions, residents should tune into local news stations, check media resources and visit the city’s snow page at snow.baltimorecity.gov.
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Baltimore City Snow Team Facts
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