Officials around Delmarva urging preparedness and safety for Saturday snowstorm

Snow Emergency Plans are being activated around the region as a winter storm inches closer and closer to Delmarva.

Georgetown announced that their emergency plan will go into effect at 12 AM Saturday, meaning parking restrictions apply to all designated snow emergency routes. Georgetown officials urge residents to avoid driving during winter storm conditions. Caution is especially stressed around snow plows and snow removal personnel.

Wicomico County officials similarly encouraged people to stay off the roads and to use extreme caution. Officials announced that the Newland Park Landfill and all other public solid waste convenience centers will be closed Saturday.

HALO in Wicomico County will provide extra beds on Friday night for both the men's and women's shelter. The HALO Day Facility will be open Saturday and Sunday, officials said.

Within Wicomico County, City of Salisbury officials say that the city has nine plow trucks and 600 tons of salt on hand. Officials report that residential streets will be plowed when snow accumulation reaches or exceeds four inches. Snow emergency routes get first preference for plowing and parking is prohibited along these roads.

In Salisbury,  the Hope and Life Outreach (HALO) day facility is open today and tomorrow, and hot soup and sandwiches are being preparted today for lunch.

In addition to Worcester County's activation of a snow emergency starting 2 AM Saturday, county officials announced Friday that a cold weather shelter for homeless Worcester County citizens at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Ocean City will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Guests can get a warm meal, a warm bed and breakfast in the morning.

Somerset County is under a snow emergency starting 2 AM Saturday as well, Maryland State Police said.

Dorchester County officials ask residents to keep phones and other electronic communication devices charged in case of emergencies.

"The winds could create the coldest wind chill of the season, potentially decreased visibility and increase the possibility of downed power lines," Director of Dorchester County Department of Emergency Services Anna Sierra said. "Please remain safe and remember to check on vulnerable family, friends and neighbors."

Dorchester officials also warn against running generators indoors or in closed areas.