Residents should prepare for possible slick driving conditions

BALTIMORE, MD (December 7, 2021) — The Baltimore City Department of Transportation announced today that it is fully prepared for the first round of winter precipitation of the season.  Snow is forecast to begin early Wednesday in the Baltimore region, which could create slippery driving conditions for both the morning and afternoon commutes. 

“As we are faced with the first round of winter precipitation of the season, I am confident that our snow crews are ready to deliver prompt and efficient service to the residents of Baltimore,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott.  “Under the leadership of Transportation Director Steve Sharkey, our snow operations have been thoroughly examined to ensure that we are fully prepared for whatever Mother Nature may bring us this winter.”

In preparation for the storm, crews are pre-treating city gateways and primary roadways with salt brine today which helps prevent snow from sticking to the pavement.  Snow crews will deploy early Wednesday to closely monitor weather and roadway conditions. 

“The Department of Transportation is fully prepared for the first snow of the season to make our roadways safe for travel,” said Director Sharkey.  “Even though accumulation is expected to be minimal, just a coating of snow can cause slippery conditions.  I encourage all motorists to drive with extra caution tomorrow for a safe commute.”

Residents are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared if traveling on Wednesday.  Winter precipitation can cause roadways to become slick, especially on bridges, ramps and overpasses.  Motorists should drive at reduced speeds, plan additional travel time and allow extra following distance for everyone’s safety.  Drivers are reminded not to “crowd the plow” by staying behind working snow vehicles and allowing them plenty of space to operate. 

For updated weather forecasts and traffic conditions, residents should tune into local news stations, check media resources and visit the city’s snow page at snow.baltimorecity.gov.

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