Howard County Government Begins Preparations Ahead of January 24th-26th Winter Storm

ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball today announced that Howard County Government has begun its preparations in anticipation for the winter weather event forecasted to impact our region this Saturday, January 24th through Monday, January 26th morning.

Weather Alerts

As of Friday, January 23rd afternoon, the US National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington (NWS) has issued a WINTER STORM WARNING for Howard County, in effect from 11:00 p.m., Saturday, January 24th to 4:00 a.m., Monday, January 26th. Heavy snow and mixed precipitation is expected to overspread our area starting Saturday night with snow, with rates of one to two inches per hour possible. Total snow and sleet accumulations between seven and 14 inches expected, as well as ice accumulations between one and two tenths of an inch. Visibility at times could be one-quarter mile or less. Given the anticipated conditions, travel may become hazardous and potentially life-threatening and could be extremely difficult or impossible at times. Residents are advised to stay home and off the roadways during this winter weather event.

With the snow, this Arctic air mass will also bring a prolonged period of wind chills in the teens and single digits, beginning Friday evening and lasting through the middle of next week. Sub-zero wind chills are possible at times. As of Friday morning, the NWS has also issued a COLD WEATHER ADVISORY for Howard County, in effect from 8:00 p.m., January 23rd through 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 24th. Current forecasts have wind chills reaching as low as negative 10 degrees Fahrenheit during this time frame.

These frigid wind chills could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken. Ahead of the advisory, the County’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is reminding residents about the signs, symptoms and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia. Please keep in mind, frostbite and hypothermia can occur in less than 30 minutes. OEM is also asking residents to please make frequent checks on older family, friends and neighbors. 

If you must go outside during this time, the Howard County Health Department recommends following these tips to protect yourself and your family in extreme cold weather:

• Cover your head. You lose as much as 50 percent of your body heat through your head.
• Wear several layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. The air between the layers acts as insulation to keep you warmer.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect lungs from direct cold air. Cover your ears and the lower part of your face.
• Wear mittens rather than fingered gloves. The close contact of fingers helps keep your hands warm.

Community members who are looking for a place to get out of the cold and warm up during regular business hours can stop by one of the County's Department of Recreation and Parks Gary J. Arthur, North Laurel and Roger Carter community centers or Department of Community Resources and Services' 50+ centers or a Howard County Library System branch. Community members who are or encounter someone who is in need of shelter from the cold, should contact Grassroots Crisis Intervention's hotline at (410) 531-6677 for assistance or go to its Crisis Center at 8990 Old Annapolis Road, Suite A in Columbia.

Office of Emergency Management’s Preparation Tips

As OEM continues to monitor the weather, the office is reminding residents to take steps now to make sure you and your family are prepared, including:

• Make sure your home “Basic Disaster Supplies Kit” is fully stocked; for what to include, visit www.ready.gov/kit. 
• If you take prescription medications every day, make sure you refill them before the weekend if you are running low.
• If you are on dialysis or other life-sustaining medical treatment, know the location and availability of more than one facility that can help you.
• Create a support network of people – family, friends, neighbors, etc., who can help you in a disaster, such as checking in on your wellbeing, especially if elderly or disabled, and assisting with shoveling and more, if needed.
• Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Make sure each of vehicle and/or vehicles all have a full tank of gas and that each is equipped with an emergency supply kit; for what to include, visit www.ready.gov/car.

To stay weather aware during an event, OEM’s reminds residents to make sure emergency alerts are activated on your mobile device and to subscribe to weather alerts through NWS’s website at www.weather.gov/enterprise. Residents can also visit NWS's www.weather.gov website or tune into your local television or radio news station for the most up-to-date forecast as well.

Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Highways Operations

The County’s Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Highways’ is responsible for snow removal from approximately 3,783 County maintained (named) roadways. Crews began pretreating primary and secondary roadways today, January 23rd and all trucks and equipment have been loaded with fuel, salt, and magnesium chloride, with crews ready to respond based on forecast timing.

At the beginning of a storm, de-icing materials are spread first to prevent the bonding of snow or ice to the road surface. Then, depending on the intensity of the storm, plowing operations follow. Primary and secondary roads receive the first service to ensure that public safety vehicles can provide service to residents. Drivers then concentrate their efforts on local residential roads. All County maintained roads are serviced before Highways halts its efforts. During a typical snowstorm of six to 12 inches, Highways’ goal is to have all County maintained roadways cleared within 12 to 18 hours after the storm ends. Residents can track the progress of Highways’ snow removal equipment via the County's Snow Plow Tracker.

To assist Highways in its snow removal efforts, residents are being asked to not park their vehicle(s) on the street, especially on a cul-de-sac, starting this evening, January 23rd, as this makes snow removal nearly impossible for its crews. Instead, and if able, please park in your driveway. Doing so will help Highways more efficiently and effectively clear County maintained roadways, plus it means you'll have less snow to shovel out of your driveway after the storm has passed.

Finally, once the snow does begin to fall, Highways is offering up this tip to avoid that “second shovel.” When shoveling your driveway, consider delaying shoveling your driveway apron until your street has been completely cleared. Otherwise, it is possible a full blade of snow will slide off the plow onto the driveway. If you do shovel out your driveway apron before the plow comes along, consider clearing a "pocket" next to your driveway along the shoulder or curb - about the length of a parking space. When the plow passes, the angle of the snow blade will naturally dump most of the snow in the pocket instead of your driveway.

Parking Restrictions

In anticipation of the winter weather, all on-street parking along historic Ellicott City’s Main Street from Ellicott Mills Drive to the Baltimore County line at the Patapsco River is prohibited starting at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, January 24th. Residents and visitors are advised to move their cars to one of historic Ellicott City’s parking lots, which will remain open.

Additionally, should the Maryland State Police declare a Snow Emergency Plan in effect for Howard County, parking on roads and streets designated as ”Snow Emergency Routes” in the county, including Main Street, will be prohibited.

Department of Recreation & Parks’ Facilities, Programs, Events, and Activities

To check on the status of County Department of Recreation & Parks’ facilities, programs, events, and activities, be sure to call the department’s corresponding inclement weather and program status line before heading out the door.

Department of Fire and Rescue Services Safety Tips

With temperatures forecasted to dip below freezing, the County’s Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is reminding residents to ALWAYS plug your space heater directly into the wall and to NEVER use an extension cord to power it. Also, be sure to keep your space heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn and to always turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Also, generators, camp stoves, and grills/barbeques are NEVER safe to use indoors, this includes garages (even with the door open), basements or any other enclosed area. Carbon monoxide from these items is completely colorless and odorless and can be deadly. Generators should be placed in a well ventilated location outdoors and at least 20 feet from your home or business so exhaust fumes cannot enter indoors through windows, doors or other openings.

DFRS is also reminding county farmers, if you have a barn that you keep heated, please make sure flammable materials are stored in appropriate containers and in a secure area away from heat sources.

Finally, when it comes to shoveling, DFRS is reminding residents to always shovel safely. Before you begin, be sure to warm-up and stretch. Once underway: pace yourself; take breaks and stay hydrated; use your legs, not your back; and dress warmly to prevent frostbite. Finally, if you have heart issues or health concerns, consult your doctor before tackling the snow.

Howard County Police Department

As travel is expected to become hazardous, extremely difficult or impossible at times, and potentially life-threatening, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is urging residents to stay off the roads and not drive if you don’t have to. However, if you must travel during this winter weather event:

• Be sure to clear all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the roof and hood;
• Take extra time on the road, slow down, and leave plenty of space between your car and the car in front of you;
• Minimize distractions and focus on getting safely to your destination; and 
• If you hit ice, it is important that you stay calm, take your foot off the gas pedal immediately, and avoid slamming on the brakes. Instead, try to steer gently in the direction you want to go, turning your steering wheel slightly towards the skid if your vehicle starts to slide, and allow it to regain traction as much as possible without making sudden movements.

HCPD officers will be out keeping the roads as safe as possible.

Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Environmental Services

The County’s Alpha Ridge Landfill will be open tomorrow, Saturday, January 24th as normal. However, the Landfill will be closed on Monday, January 26th.

Additionally, County provided curbside trash, recycling, and food scraps/yard trim collections on Monday are cancelled. As a result, the Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Environmental Services’ inclement weather “slide” schedule will be in effect for the remainder of the week, pending no further cancellations. For updates, be sure to sign-up for the Bureau’s newsletter, visit its website, call the Bureau at (410) 313-6444, or follow Howard County Government on Facebook and X.

Please note, while bulk item collection will slide with trash collection, scrap metal collection will be rescheduled. Residents are reminded to make all containers are free of ice and/or snow and easily accessible to ensure collection.

To learn more, visit the Bureau’s “Holiday/Inclement Weather Trash & Recycling Schedule” website. 

Department of Community Resources and Services

Any late openings or closings of the County’s Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) facilities, including its 50+ centers, will be posted on DCRS’s Facebook page. The department’s 410-313-7777 emergency number will also carry updates.  

Office of Consumer Protection Winter Weather Scam Alerts

The County’s Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) is warning residents to be aware of the following scams that tend to follow winter weather events, including: 

• Door-to-door snow removal scams, in which the scammer asks for upfront cash or mobile payment but never does the work. Whether hiring a local high school kid or landscaper, OCP advises always paying after the work has been done.
• Door-to-door storm chasers offering evaluations of your roof or siding. These scammers will tell homeowners there’s damage and they can work with your insurer for a “free” replacement. OCP advises homeowner that before they sign any contract, to make sure they get at least three evaluations to make sure there’s damage and that you’re getting the best price. Keep in mind, insurance premiums are impacted by each claim made and there is no such thing as “free.”

To learn more about scams, including how to spot them, avoid them, and what to do if you fall victim to one, check out OCP’s “Scam Squad” website.

Office of Human Resources

For new Howard County Government employees, if the County is open and opening on time this Monday, January 26th, in-person New Employee Orientation (NEO) will take place as previously scheduled at the County’s Office of Human Resources (HR), located in Suite 201 of the Ascend One Building at 8930 Stanford Boulevard in Columbia, starting at 8:00 a.m. However, in the event the County has a delayed opening or is closed:  

• If a delayed opening/liberal leave on Monday or Tuesday, the NEO will be conducted at the delayed start time, e.g., if delayed or liberal leave is provided for two hours, the NEO will begin at 10:00 a.m. instead of 8:00 a.m. If the delay is for three or more hours, the NEO will be rescheduled and attendees will be contacted by email.
• If closed on Monday, but open on Tuesday, January 27th, the NEO will be conducted on Tuesday starting at 8:00 a.m. in the same location.
• If closed on both Monday and Tuesday, the NEO will be rescheduled and attendees will be contacted by email with a new date and time.

New County employees should monitor their email for alerts regarding adjustments or cancellations. For any questions or issues, please contact HR at (410) 313-2033 or email humanresources@howardcountymd.gov. 

Department of Corrections

The County’s Department of Corrections has cancelled all programs, including religious services, beginning Saturday, January 24th through Monday, January 26th. Additionally, there will be no visits with the incarcerated population on Monday.

Department of Housing and Community Development

The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, previously scheduled for January 26th, has been RESCHEDULED for Wednesday, January 28th from 2:00 p.m. to midnight. DHCD’s PIT Count is 'snapshot' of the number of people experiencing sheltered and unsheltered homelessness on a given night. It is an essential tool in reaching the County’s goal of making homelessness a rare, brief, and one-time only occurrence for our residents.

The Day Resource Center will now be providing free services on the 28th from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. for homeless individuals, including COVID and flu immunizations, and HIV testing. People can present at The Day Resource Center until 10:00 p.m.

If you or someone you know is living outside, in a car, or any unlivable place, please contact Grassroots' 24-hour crisis hotline at 410-531-6677.

Per Grassroots Crisis Intervention:

• If a State of Emergency is declared, the Day Resource Program at 10390 Guilford Road, Suite A in Jessup, will not open.
• If a State of Emergency is NOT declared, the Leola Dorsey Center at 10390 Guilford Road, Suite A in Jessup, will open if the parking lots and connecting sidewalks are plowed and adequate Grassroots staffing and volunteers are available. A final decision will be made on Monday morning regarding normal operating hours of 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.
• The Grassroots Emergency Shelter at 6700 Freetown Road in Columbia, will be staffed and operating as usual (24/7); this is where Code Blue overnight sheltering is happening.
• Single individuals will be transported to Grassroots Emergency Shelter at 6700 Freetown Road in Columbia.
• Families with children should be transported to the Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center at 8990 Old Annapolis Road, Suite A in Columbia.
• If you are or know of anyone who is stranded, call Grassroots’ hotline at (410) 531-6677.

BGE Storm Preparations and Power Outage and Natural Gas Information

BGE continues to closely monitor the weather and prepare for this weekend’s snowstorm, preemptively mobilizing its crews and proactively increasing staffing to ensure crews are available to respond to any power outages as quickly and safely as possible. Of particular concern to BGE is the potential for a significant accumulation of snow, followed by sleet or freezing rain, which could have a severe impact on trees and power lines. Downed trees, limbs, and other debris cause approximately half of all power outages during storms.

At this time, BGE is encouraging its customers to follow these simple steps now to stay safe and comfortable if the storm affects power in their area:

• If you use medical equipment in your home, make sure it is fully charged with backup charging devices available. If you rely on electricity for medical equipment, talk to your doctor or health care provider about what you may be able to do to keep it running during a power outage. You can also ask your power provider to put you on a list for priority power restoration; for BGE customers, see www.bge.com/my-account/customer-support/assistance-programs/special-needs-programs and for Potomac Edison customers, see www.firstenergycorp.com/help/billingpayments/assistance_serviceprogram/potomac_edison_maryland.html. 
• Customers who may be elderly or have disabilities should confirm backup plans in case of an extended outage.
• Make sure your home “Basic Disaster Supplies Kit” includes a battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert, a flashlight, and extra batteries.
• Fully charge cell phones, computers, electric vehicles, and other devices before the storm arrives.
• If you have a landline, keep a corded phone available in case mobile devices lose power.
• Place a working flashlight with fresh batteries on each floor of your home.

 If a power outage occurs, customers can report the outage:

• To BGE:
  • By calling (877) 778-2222;
  • Texting “OUT” to 69243;
  • Via BGE’s free mobile app available today at the Apple Store or GooglePlay; or
  • Online at https://secure.bge.com/powerOutages/accountVerification. 
  • For details on how to sign up for outage alerts and notifications from BGE, visit BGE.com/alerts. 
• To Potomac Edison:
  • By calling (888) 544-4877
  • Texting “OUT” to 544487; or
  • Online at https://www.firstenergycorp.com/outages_help/Report_Power_Outages.html. 
  • For details on how to sign up for outage alerts and notifications from Potomac Edison, visit https://www.firstenergycorp.com/outages_help/outage_help/outage_notifications.html. 

If a power outage were to occur, BGE's restoration priorities are public safety and other essential services, such as 911 centers, hospitals, and pumping stations. Then restoration is generally scheduled so that the greatest number of customers can be restored as quickly and safely as possible. However, in cases of extended power outages, consideration is also given to customers who have been without service for the longest.  
 
Finally, as a reminder:

• If you see a downed power line, sparking or not, leave the area immediately and then call 9-1-1.
• For natural gas users:
  • Please keep your natural gas appliances vents clear:
  • Identify the location of outside utility equipment such as natural gas or electric meters and gas regulators that could be covered in snow and may be susceptible to damage from snow shovels and mechanized snow removal equipment.
  • Know where your natural gas appliances vent to the exterior and ensure the vents are clear. If these vents become blocked by snow or ice, exhaust may back up resulting in carbon monoxide build-up or a release of natural gas.
  • Use a broom or brush to gently clear the area around the meter of anything blocking it, including debris, ice and snow.
  • Do not melt ice or snow on meters with a heat source, and do not chip or scrape ice. These methods can damage or break the meter.
  • It is also important to remove icicles that hang over the meter and can drip freezing water that may damage equipment.
  • If you smell natural gas or suspect a gas leak, get to a safe location (at least 100 feet away) and immediately call 9-1-1 or BGE at 1-877-778-7798. 

Howard County Public School System

For information about Howard County Public School System facility closings and delays, visit https://www.hcpss.org/. 

Howard County Library System

For information about Howard County Library System facility closings and delays, visit https://www.hclibrary.org/. 

Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland (RTA)

Due to the forecasted weather, RTA has suspended all service for Sunday, January 25th. Weather permitting, RTA expects to resume it services at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 26th. For additional updates regarding RTA bus routes and services, visit https://www.transitrta.com/.

Maryland Courts

For weather-related closings when it comes to the Circuit Court for Howard County or District Court of Maryland, Howard County, visit the State’s Maryland Courts website at www.courts.state.md.us/administration/closingsdelays. 

For the latest information about the County’s response to this storm, be sure to follow Howard County Government on Facebook and X.