15 to 24 inches of snow and sleet are expected in Central Maryland before the storm is done with us (with lower accumulations possible along the Chesapeake Bay). Nearly everything is closed, including Central Maryland's public schools, federal government offices, state government offices, and most local government offices. MARC trains and commuter buses aren't running. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect until 5am Friday. A State of Emergency is in effect.
Much of Maryland will be taking a snow day today.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning until 5am Friday. Most of the listening area is now expected to get between 15 and 24 inches of snow, with the lower totals possible along the Chesapeake Bay. You can find the National Weather Service's most updated snow accumulation prediction map here.
After declaring a State of Emergency for Maryland earlier this week, Governor Martin O'Malley is now urging Marylanders to "stay off the roads."
Public schools in Central Maryland are closed today (the two systems served by WYPO in Ocean City are open, as the storm's less troublesome there; for more information, check out the websites of Wicomico County Schools and Worcester County Schools for updates). Most private schools, colleges, and universities are closed as well (we haven't heard from any that are open -- but there's always a slight chance yours may be, so call ahead before heading out if you think you could have class).
DC offices of the federal government are closed. Offices of the Social Security Administration in the Baltimore area are also closed. State government offices and facilities are also closed. Most local government offices are also closed (Baltimore City government offices are open, but liberal leave is in effect for non-essential employees).
MARC trains are not running today. Commuter buses aren't running either. There are delays on local MTA bus routes, and many diversions are in place. The Charm City Circulator has suspended service. More on the changes affecting MTA services is available here.
Between the snow and the wind -- gusts up to 30 mph are possible -- power outages are likely. BGE's outage map is located here. BGE urges you to contact them to report outages and downed power lines; call 877-778-2222.
