More than 300 crashes in Md. amid road conditions, resources activated

As many areas of the state face dangerous road conditions due to a weather pattern consisting of rain, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has directed state emergency management, transportation, and law enforcement agencies to work closely with local jurisdictions to provide needed support.

"As the winter storm season begins, we urge all Marylanders to use caution when traveling, closely monitor weather and road conditions, heed all warnings from state and local authorities, and have a safety plan in place for emergencies," Governor Hogan says in a statement. "Maryland remains ready and committed to activating all necessary state resources to keep all Marylanders safe this winter season."

Maryland State Police troopers have responded to more than 330 crashes as of 1 p.m. Saturday, authorities say.

We're told troopers are working with Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration personnel to remove stuck cars off roads, so road clearing operations can continue more effectively.

Other statewide resources activated include the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, which is monitoring weather forecasts in anticipation of possible refreezing on Sunday night or Monday morning. Officials are also preparing staff for virtual operations in the event the situation warrants further coordination and support to state and local partners for Sunday and Monday.

We're told MDOT's State Highway Administration ('SHA') and the Maryland Transportation Authority ('MDTA') staff and contract forces have also been responding overnight with 1,200 pieces of equipment and 380,000 tons of salt on hand.

There are currently 98 salt domes across the state.