UPDATE: State of Emergency declared for Maryland, starting Friday morning

The Maryland Governor has declared a State of Emergency, in anticipation of a possible snow storm. On Thursday, Governor Larry Hogan declared a State of Emergency for Maryland, starting at 7:00 AM on Friday, ahead of a potentially historic storm, expected to hit the state.

“Our state is taking every precaution – coordinating all available resources – to prepare to clear roads, manage incidents, and recover from this storm,” said Governor Hogan. “We urge all Marylanders to take action now to prepare, before this severe weather strikes, with the knowledge that our state will do everything it can to respond quickly, effectively and efficiently to this major storm event.”

“It is essential that residents prepare now, stay informed, and stay off the roads after the snow begins,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “MEMA has been coordinating State resources to deal with problems that the significant snowfall may cause, but, motorists can avoid delays and serious incidents by avoiding travel.”

Wicomico County Public Schools says they are getting questions about school closing on Friday. They say a state of emergency does not require school systems to close, it simply puts state and local government on a heightened readiness and awareness, because of the potentially severe weather. Wicomico Schools noted that they are scheduled to have a full day of school on Friday, Jan. 22.

Residents can go to Maryland Emergency Management Agency’s website, for more preparedness information, and can follow MEMA’s Twitter feed, @MDMEMA, and Facebook page, for up-to-date information.

MEMA offered the following tips:

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