Baltimore, December 26, 2025
As the holiday season concludes, Maryland road crews are mobilizing for a winter storm that will affect much of the state post-Christmas. Anticipated freezing rain, sleet, and snow pose serious hazards for drivers. The Maryland State Highway Administration is urging caution and implementing strategies for road safety, including anti-icing and de-icing measures, and advising residents to stay informed and limit travel during the storm.
Maryland Road Crews Gear Up for Post-Christmas Winter Storm
Stay Safe in Baltimore: Winter Weather Preparations Underway
Baltimore, MD – As the festive spirit winds down, Maryland road crews are preparing for a winter storm that is expected to impact the state following Christmas. With forecasts predicting a dangerous mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is already advising drivers to stay vigilant and cautious on the roads.
This upcoming storm may create hazardous driving conditions, especially on bridges and elevated ramps, underscoring the importance of effective road management and community cooperation. Such proactive measures reflect the resilience of local agencies in their commitment to public safety while illustrating how streamlined operations can enhance winter weather preparedness and decrease risks to residents.
Winter Storm Forecast
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for central Maryland, including the greater Baltimore area and portions of the Eastern Shore, as wintry conditions are expected to begin Friday afternoon and persist into the evening. Drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and to slow down after sunset when conditions are projected to turn even more treacherous.
SHA’s Preparedness Measures
In preparation for this winter event, the Maryland State Highway Administration has enacted multiple strategies to ensure increased road safety:
- Anti-Icing: Salt brine has been applied to roads ahead of the storm, preventing the bond of snow and ice with pavement, thereby reducing the amount of salt required during the storm.
- De-Icing: During the storm, crews will deploy rock salt to break the bond between the ice and the road surface. In colder scenarios, magnesium chloride may be utilized for better results.
- Liquid Salt Brine-Only Routes: Routes designated for liquid salt brine application are set up for quicker treatment while minimizing overall salt usage.
Public Safety Recommendations
- Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Residents are encouraged to stay off the roads when possible, enabling crews to work more effectively.
- Stay Informed: Local weather updates and road condition alerts through official channels can provide timely information.
- Drive Safely: For those needing to travel, reducing speed, increasing following distance, and exercising extra caution—particularly on bridges and overpasses—is crucial.
Background
Maryland’s approach to winter storm preparedness rests upon a comprehensive planning strategy involving pre-storm actions, efficient resource allocation, and public education efforts. The SHA’s Office of Communications performs annual briefings to keep the community informed about winter operations, aiding in fostering a safer environment.
For further details on SHA’s winter operations, residents can utilize the Maryland Department of Transportation’s official resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the expected impact of the winter storm on Maryland?
The winter storm is expected to bring a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow, creating hazardous driving conditions, particularly on bridges and elevated ramps. Drivers are advised to plan for extra travel time and reduce speeds, especially after sunset when conditions are likely to worsen.
What measures is the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) taking to prepare for the storm?
SHA has implemented several strategies, including applying salt brine to prevent ice bonding, deploying rock salt during the storm for de-icing, and designating specific routes for liquid salt brine application to reduce salt usage.
What safety recommendations does SHA provide to the public during winter weather events?
SHA recommends avoiding unnecessary travel, staying informed through local weather updates, and driving safely by reducing speed, increasing following distance, and exercising caution, especially on bridges and overpasses.
How does SHA educate the public about winter storm preparedness?
SHA’s Office of Communications conducts annual briefings to update the public on winter operations and safety measures, aiming to ensure the safety of all road users during winter weather events.
Key Features of SHA’s Winter Storm Preparedness
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Anti-Icing | Application of salt brine to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the pavement before the storm. |
| De-Icing | Deployment of rock salt during the storm to break the bond between ice and the road surface. |
| Liquid Salt Brine-Only Routes | Designated routes where only liquid salt brine is applied to reduce salt usage and enhance treatment effectiveness. |
| Public Education | Annual briefings and outreach to inform the public about winter operations and safety measures. |
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