State highway crews prepare for large amounts of rain

The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration says it is  ready for heavy rainfall forecast over Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. 

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for much of Maryland.
 
“Drivers need to be extremely cautious during heavy rains.  From reduced visibility, potential hydroplaning, and flooded roadways, driving conditions will not be ideal and we all need to adjust for safety,” said SHA Administrator Gregory C. Johnson, P.E.  “Do not try to drive through high water or flooded roadways. It does not take much water to lose control of your vehicle and endanger yourself and others.”

SHA says its maintenance crews are inspecting, cleaning and clearing storm water ditches, drains and inlets, and crews from SHA maintenance facilities also evaluated all emergency response equipment such as high water signs, chainsaws, chippers, loaders and grading trucks.

Officials also note that the storm could result in scattered power outages.  

SHA reminds drivers that if you encounter an intersection where traffic signals are without power, by law, all drivers must treat the intersection as a four-way stop. Also, Maryland law requires that when windshield wipers are in operation, low-beam headlights must be on.

SHA officials urge drivers to stay aware of the forecast and, should heavy rain and high wind begin to affect the area, shorten travel as much as possible. Click here for information about flooded roads.

For real-time travel information, SHA invites motorists to log onto the 511 website or dial 5-1-1 from a hands-free mobile device.