Weather Decision From Cecil County Public Schools

CECIL COUNTY, MD — Cecil County Public Schools announced Thursday that schools will open two hours late. The delayed opening comes as winter weather arrives in the region.

School officials said that the two-hour delay was a precautionary measure in response to the forecast of ice and snow on Thursday, Nov. 15.

There will modified preschool and prekindergarten programs, and Cecil County Public Schools offices will open on time.

A winter weather advisory is in effect for Cecil County from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15. The advisory states a wintry mix is expected to move over Delmarva around 7 a.m. on Thursday and move northeast mid-morning.

The winter weather advisory calls for up to 1 inch of snow as well as a glaze of ice.

A winter weather advisory means snow, sleet or freezing rain may create hazardous travel conditions, such as limited visibility and slippery roads. People should use caution while driving and walking outside.

Slippery road conditions are anticipated and may impact the morning commute, according to officials.

"Be very careful if you venture outside," the National Weather Service advised. "Watch your first few steps in particular as your step or path may be coated with ice."

On Thursday night, weather officials said flooding is possible in Cecil County from all the rain.

Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Harford County and Howard County are under a separate winter weather advisory from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15.

Anne Arundel, Montgomery and Prince George's counties are under an additional winter weather advisory from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15. That advisory states up to 1 inch of snow and up to 0.1 inch ice may accumulate.

Ways To Safe On The Road

"Roads that are slick or ice-covered can create a worst-case scenario for drivers," AAA Mid-Atlantic Public and Government Affairs Manager Ragina Cooper Averella said in a statement.

To stay safe, drivers should plan ahead and give themselves extra time for the Thursday morning commute.

AAA Mid-Atlantic advises drivers to be prepared and follow these winter driving tips:

• Avoid braking and turning at the same time. Brake first, then turn, then accelerate.
• Accelerate and decelerate more slowly than you would on dry roads.
• Leave extra space between your car and the car ahead of you.
• Drive with your low-beam headlights on, even during daylight.
• Use turn signals, make sure lanes are clear before changing and leave plenty of time to stop.
• Avoid using cruise control, which can reduce traction.
• Look and steer in the direction you want the car to go if you start to skid.
• Avoid puddles when it's safe to do so.
• Wear your seat belt.
• Minimize distractions. Don't text, talk on the phone or drive under the influence.
• Do not stop going up a hill.
• Pull over to the side of the road and stop completely if you can't see.

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