Harford County 2022 Snowfall Guide: Snow Removal, Traffic Updates

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — Hartford County residents are starting the new year off bundled up tight and heaters turned on as snow blankets the area. According to the National Weather Service, one to three inches of the white stuff are in Monday's forecast for north-central Maryland. More snow is expected later this week.

Here's what you need to know about snow removal and what it could mean for traffic in the area.

Who removes the snow in Harford County?

Harford County maintains 1,078 miles of roadway. That excludes state highways and roads that municipalities maintain. County crews pre-treat roads with a salt and water mixture that helps melt snow.

When will my street be plowed?

• 0-6 inches: It takes eight to 16 hours following the end of a 0-6" snowfall to plow and/or treat every county road once.
• 6-12 inches: After a 6-12" snowfall, county roads should be cleared within 24 to 36 hours. At that time, one pass should have been made through all county roads.
• 12-18 inches: After a 12-18" snowfall, our crews will complete the work in 35 to 40 hours.
• 18-24 inches: After an 18-24" snowfall, one pass should have been made through all county roads in 48 to 72 hours.

Roads are plowed according to their priority:

1. Emergency roads
2. Main roads
3. Secondary roads and cul-de-sacs

According to the county, snow fighters work around the clock to make sure county-maintained roads are passable.

"We use a force of approximately 201 employees and 158 pieces of snow removal equipment for routine snowplowing and we have available 20 additional pieces of equipment for use when conditions dictate. We store 20,000 tons of salt to get the job done," the county's website reads.

Check the Harford County snow plow tracker; once the site has been activated after a snow event, it tracks progress.

Also check Harford County's list of road closures due to weather or other hazards.

How can residents help?

• Park in your driveway.
• No driveway? Park on the same side of the street: even-numbered side in even years and odd-numbered side in odd years. Avoid parking in courts so plows can maneuver within them.
• To avoid having snow pushed back in your driveway, face the road and place shoveled snow to your right in the yard. Shovel the end of your driveway after plows have pushed snow curb to curb on your street.
• Report potholes or road hazards to Harford County at 410-638-3532.
• Report trees down to the Harford County Sheriff's Office at 410-838-6600.
• Check on neighbors needing assistance.

Need tips for shoveling?

• Shovel early and often. Newly fallen snow is lighter than heavily packed or partially melted snow. It is also important to keep a path to your door in case you need to leave in an emergency.
• Push the snow instead of lifting it. Keep the shovel close to your body, and space your hands to increase leverage. If you must lift snow, lift properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs; do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it.
• Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This action requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.
• Do not work to the point of exhaustion.
• Don't pick up that shovel without a doctor's permission if you have a history of heart disease. If you feel tightness in the chest or dizziness, stop immediately.
• Do not let a hat or scarf block your vision. Watch out for ice patches and uneven surfaces. Avoid falls by wearing shoes/boots that have slip-resistant soles.
• Snow is a powerful light reflector on sunny days. Wear sunglasses to prevent "snow blindness."
• Pace yourself. Shoveling snow is an aerobic activity, comparable to weightlifting. Take frequent breaks from the cold and the effort, and replenish fluids to prevent dehydration.

How will this affect traffic?

As the snow falls, plan on slippery road conditions, the National Weather Service warns. Slow down and use caution while traveling. Continue to monitor the National Weather Service's social media feeds for any updates.

Where to find snow closings and cancellations?

Government closings and cancellations are communicated on the Harford County website and social media, including on Facebook and Twitter. School closing announcements due to inclement weather are available from Harford County Public Schools.