Snow Estimates Increase In Baltimore County

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for part of Baltimore County. As officials increased snowfall projections, they warned that travel may be extremely difficult, with hazardous conditions expected.

Between 4 and 6 inches of snow may accumulate by 4 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 16, according to the winter storm warning.

Up to 0.1 inch ice may also accumulate, the National Weather Service reported.

RELATED: Baltimore County Closures For Thursday, November 15

Authorities issue a winter storm warning when significant amounts of snow, sleet and ice will make travel hazardous or impossible. Drivers should use extreme caution.

Two @BaltCoPolice officers helping this driver get un-stuck in the #snow #SNOWvember #police #policeofficers - video taken along #York Road across from the #Maryland State Fairgrounds @wbalradio @wbaltv11 pic.twitter.com/gygCDx1bIK
— Phil Yacuboski (@WBALPhil) November 15, 2018

The winter storm warning applies to northern Baltimore, Carroll, Washington, Allegany, Frederick, northwest Howard and northwest Montgomery counties.

Baltimore County Department of Public Works crews have been salting roads, particularly being mindful of bridges and areas prone to freezing, according to county officials.

Drivers should be sure to "take it slow on ice and snow" and turn on their headlights so others can see them on the road.

The snow emergency plan took effect at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15, meaning vehicles may not park on designated snow emergency routes. Here is a list of the roads on those routes in Baltimore County, provided by Maryland State Police.

Parts of Baltimore County are also under a flood watch from noon to midnight, with 1.5 to 2 inches of rain expected. Other areas included in the flood watch are Anne Arundel, Calvert, Harford, Howard, Montgomery and St. Mary's counties.

A gale warning is in effect through Thursday night for the lower tidal Potomac River and middle portion of the Chesapeake Bay.

Previously, the National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory calling for 2 to 4 inches of sleet and snow as well up to 0.2 inch ice, making for slippery conditions from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15.

These areas are under the winter weather advisory from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15:

• Baltimore City
• Baltimore County
• Carroll County
• Frederick County
• Harford County
• Howard County

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.

Anne Arundel, Montgomery and Prince George's counties are under another winter weather advisory until 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15. That advisory states 1 to 3 inches of snow and up to 0.1 inch ice may accumulate.

Cecil County is under a separate winter weather advisory for up to 4 inches of snow by 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15.

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 allow extra time for the 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.

Photo courtesy of the Maryland State Highway Administration.