How hospitals, state agencies are preparing for Maryland snowstorm
A significant winter storm is forecast to impact Maryland this weekend, with potential snowfall ranging from 5 to 18 inches. Preparations are underway across the state and local levels to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure public safety as millions are under winter weather advisories.
Transportation Preparations
The State Highway Administration is actively preparing equipment and stockpiling materials like salt, brine, and liquid magnesium to address potential icy conditions, particularly where temperatures fall below 20 degrees, according to spokesperson Charlie Gischlar. Crews are monitoring the storm’s progress and will determine deployment schedules in the coming days.
In Baltimore City, the Department of Transportation will begin pretreating key roadways – including gateways, bridges, hills, and overpasses along Interstate 83 and Maryland 295 – starting Thursday. City-owned parking facilities will be available to residents on a first-come, first-served basis for vehicle parking during the storm.
Travelers flying out of Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport should anticipate potential flight cancellations, advises spokesperson Jonathan Dean. Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for the latest flight status updates and possible travel plan alterations. Approximately 150 airport employees will be dedicated to snow removal on runways and taxiways, and covered parking options are available.
Hospital Readiness
Hospitals throughout the region are closely monitoring the weather and preparing to maintain operations as normally as possible. This includes arrangements to house and feed staff at or near hospital facilities, ensuring their availability during the storm. Snow removal from parking areas and sidewalks is also a priority, along with coordination with local authorities to guarantee patient access, particularly for emergency cases.
LifeBridge Health, encompassing Sinai Hospital and Northwest Hospital, is establishing “command centers” to coordinate these efforts and ensure staff have contingency plans, stated Sharon Boston, a spokesperson. Luminis Health, operating Anne Arundel Medical Center and Doctors Community Medical Center, is evaluating surgical schedules for potential rescheduling on Monday, according to Jen Harrington, senior vice president and chief operating officer. Luminis outpatient centers are planning a delayed opening on Monday, with early appointments being rescheduled as requested.
MedStar Union Memorial and Good Samaritan hospitals are continuing to monitor the situation and will implement changes as needed, said President T.J. Senker. He noted that hospitals regularly practice emergency preparedness for major weather events. He recalled past storms where staff personally assisted patients in reaching care, and emphasized the hospital’s current capacity to provide patient transport if necessary.
County-Level Responses
Local governments across Maryland are proactively pretreating roads and coordinating with emergency services. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has convened meetings with Cabinet agencies and state and local partners in preparation for the storm.
Howard County public works crews began preparations on Wednesday, monitoring forecasts, coordinating with emergency services, and inspecting equipment, according to County Executive Calvin Ball. Residents are asked to park vehicles in driveways to facilitate efficient plowing. Baltimore County is tentatively scheduling brining operations to begin Thursday and Friday, said Ron Snyder, a spokesperson for the Department of Public Works and Transportation. Snyder cautioned that this storm has the potential to be the largest in the Baltimore area since 2016, urging patience as crews work to clear roads.
Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works will deploy up to 350 employees for road treatment and plowing, focusing on main roads, hills, curves, and intersections. Residential streets will be salted only if necessary. Montgomery County is prepared with 275 plow trucks to address its 5,500 miles of roadways, stated Luke Hodgson, director of the county’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
Preparing Yourself
Residents are advised to stay home this weekend if possible. Officials recommend ensuring an adequate supply of food and medication, and assembling an emergency supply kit containing first-aid items, flashlights, batteries, warm clothing, and blankets. If travel is unavoidable, an emergency kit for the car and a full gas tank are essential.
AAA Mid-Atlantic suggests checking car batteries and tire tread depth, and completely clearing snow and ice from vehicles before driving to prevent visibility obstructions and potential hazards. In Baltimore, residents can report icy roads or sidewalks by calling 311 or using the city’s mobile app.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of preparations are hospitals making?
Hospitals are preparing to house and feed staff, clear parking areas, and coordinate with local officials to ensure patient access, especially for emergencies. Some hospitals are evaluating surgical schedules and rescheduling appointments.
What is being done to clear the roads?
Road crews are pretreating roads with salt, brine, and liquid magnesium. They are also preparing equipment and coordinating with emergency services to prioritize main roads, hills, and curves.
What should residents do to prepare?
Residents are advised to stay home if possible, stock up on food and medication, assemble an emergency supply kit, and ensure their vehicles are prepared for winter conditions.
Considering the potential for significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions, what steps will you take to ensure your safety and the safety of your community this weekend?