Winter weather will severely impact travel throughout Maryland beginning Friday.
The State Highway Administration will deploy its fleet of 2,400 trucks to combat treacherous conditions expected during a storm of this magnitude.
Strong winds will likely lead to white out conditions, making roadways extremely dangerous.
Motorists are encouraged to stay off the roads.
If you must travel, the State Highway Administration asks you to follow these winter driving safety tips:
• “Don’t Crowd the Plow” – NEVER pass a snow plow or plow train (a series of plows working in tandem). If driving behind a snow plow or salt truck, provide plenty of space (at least 7-8 car lengths) behind the truck.
• “Know Before you Go.” Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit: http://www.md511.org for current travel information. View live traffic cameras on http://www. roads.maryland.gov.
• Remember – bridges, ramps and overpasses freeze first. Use caution when driving across them.
• Four-wheel drive vehicles are just as vulnerable to slipping on ice as regular two-wheel drive vehicles.
• Pack a winter driving survival kit – including a shovel, blanket, water, jumper cables, flares, snacks and a flash light.
• Clear snow from your vehicle’s headlights, roof and from other places that may obstruct vision or become a danger to other motorists.
• Make sure your vehicle is in proper working condition. Check the battery, tire tread and pressure, belts, hoses and fluid levels.
• Travel with plenty of gas in the tank.
• When shoveling snow, please do not place it in the street/roadway. Plow trucks push snow to the right. When facing your driveway, pile snow to your left, off the road. This reminder will save you additional hours of shoveling!
ABC2's Most Accurate Weather team is tracking the storm here: http://www.abc2news.com/weather. For the latest road conditions, go to: http://www.abc2news.com/traffic. You can also follow Lauren Cook on Facebook, Twitter (@MarylandTraffic, @LaurenCookABC2) and Instagram (@LaurenCookABC2News).
