Storm Driving Tips from the SHA

The following information was recently released from the State Highway Administration:

The Maryland State Highway Administration urges residents to not venture out unless there is an emergency. If you must drive, exercise extreme caution when traveling.

A hurricane warning is in effect for the Atlantic Coast of the Eastern Shore and the Chesapeake Bay South of Drum Point. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the Chesapeake Bay from Drum Point northward and the Tidal Potomac. A flash flood watch remains in effect for the Eastern Shore, Southern Maryland, and the majority of Central Maryland through late tonight.

Roads into Ocean City are closed. These include US 50, MD 90, MD 528 and MD 611.

The SHA has issued the following important information for state residents:

• Do not try to cross a flooded roadway. Eighty percent of flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Two feet of rapidly moving water can float a bus and six inches can knock a person off his or her feet.
• Do not try to drive around police or highway personnel who are blocking roads. They are doing so for a reason and for your safety.
• Be patient and courteous. It is contagious.
• Avoid downed or damaged power and transmission wires and cables.
• Keep alert for animals, such as deer, that will be fleeing dangerous areas and crossing roadways.
• Stay alert for traffic signal issues related to power outages. Use extreme caution and do not assume the other drivers will stop or yield.
• Prepare your vehicle by filling the gas tank, checking tire pressure and washer fluid, charging your cell phone and bringing snacks for you and passengers.

The SHA urges motorists to exercise extreme caution as weather conditions change. If you must drive, please buckle up and obey posted speed limits.