Harford County Does Well During Second Winter Storm; Refreezing Roads Remains a Concern

From Harford County government:

The second winter storm in less than a week resulted in little snowfall and less traffic concerns than projected. The county received approximately three inches of snow which began shortly before 7:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. The majority of the snow had stopped prior to 2:00 p.m.

The Harford County Department of Emergency Services, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was staff to Level 2, including Emergency Management, law enforcement, fire and EMS, Department of Public Works, Division of Highways and Department of Administration. The EOC concluded operations at 2:30 p.m.

More than 100 DPW personnel and contractors began work early Tuesday morning plowing and treating roads of snow and ice. As of noon all Harford County public roads were passable. State highways throughout the county were also clear by mid-morning.

During the height of the storm, between 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. the Harford County 9 1 1 Center dispatched 54 calls for service; far below the number of calls the Center dispatched during the storm Sunday.

A major concern of the Department of Emergency Services is the refreezing of wet roads due to falling temperatures overnight. “As the temperature drops roads and bridges are susceptible to freezing which may lead to accidents,” said Emergency Manager Rick Ayers. “Motorists are urged to use caution as the potential for “black ice” increases due to projected subfreezing temperatures,” Ayers added.

A final estimate of the storm’s impact to Harford County Government is not yet available.

From the Maryland State Highway Administration:

Snowfall Diminishing; Falling Temperatures May Bring Icy Roads Tonight and Tomorrow Morning

Following Tips for Driving in Winter Weather Will help Keep Drivers Safe

(December 10, 2013 – 1 p.m.) – The snow may be moving out but weather will continue to be a factor for driving tonight and tomorrow morning. Temperatures are falling potentially turning wet roads into icy roads. State Highway Administration (SHA) work crews will continue salting and plowing operations as long as needed.

“A big thank you to Maryland drivers and SHA crews for doing their part today,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters. “A combination of school, government and business closures and people heeding the warning to stay at home gave work crews an opportunity to salt, plow and clear state roads. Our job isn’t over, and we ask drivers for their continued diligence.”

Following these driving tips remains important:

Drive at the appropriate speed for conditions.
Clean off your vehicle for your safety and visibility, as well as for other drivers.
Use caution when merging at ramps and intersections, especially in areas with a history of flooding; do not to drive through standing water.
If your vehicle does become disabled, make every effort to move safely from the travel lane and onto the shoulder.
Remain alert for inactive traffic signals as a result of power outages. Use EXTREME caution and treat it is as a four-way stop – it’s the law.
Plan your route in advance by using the 511 Traveler Information system.
Ensure all head and tail lights are operational – See and Be Seen.
Know Before You Go! Dial 511 from a land line or mobile phone for traffic, weather alerts and road conditions. For internet access, visit www.MD511.org.
For the most up to date highway traffic information, call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit www.md511.org or www.traffic.maryland.gov. When you resume driving, remember to use 511 safely – Maryland law prohibits hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.