Police/Fire, Sci-Tech, Traffic, Weather

Dangerous winds to impact Maryland on Friday

Weather AlertA storm packing dangerous winds is set to bear down on Nottingham and the surrounding areas on Friday.

The National Weather Service says that High Wind Warnings are in effect from the Potomac Highlands to the Chesapeake Bay from Thursday night through Friday night.

High Wind Watches are in effect for northeastern Maryland for the same time period.

Many can expect winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts over 60 mph causing power outages.

“This storm has the potential to knock down trees, cause extended power outages, and cause dangerous debris,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Make sure to keep devices fully charged in case the power goes out and try to secure any loose objects around your property. If at all possible, do not go out during the height of the storm.”

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is evaluating rapid response equipment such as chain saws, chippers, as well as inspecting drainage ditches in advance of the storm.

The ground around much of the state is saturated, so additional rainfall and high winds can topple trees and create power outages. MDOT SHA urges drivers to get as much information about conditions and make smart travel decisions Friday morning.

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is advising motorists who are planning to travel on Maryland’s toll bridges to check wind warnings and restrictions criteria by clicking here.

MDOT SHA urges motorists to take the following precautions:
• Don’t drive through standing water. It only takes six inches of moving water to sweep a person off his/her feet, and 12 inches of moving water to move the average sedan. Remember “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”;
• If power is out at a traffic signal, State law requires ALL drivers at the intersection to treat it as a four-way stop;
• Don’t try to move fallen tree branches as high-voltage wires may be intertwined;
• Use low-beam headlights when windshield wipers are activated; and
• Keep a close eye on local information sources for the latest weather conditions and plan accordingly.

High Wind Warning Baltimore 20180302

Wind Warning Maryland 20180302

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