Harford County Opens Emergency Shelter, Warming Center

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — Due to deteriorating conditions, officials in Harford County have asked drivers to stay at home if possible. But with nearly 12,000 residents experiencing power outages and temperatures dipping close to freezing overnight, the Harford County Department of Emergency Services announced it will be opening two emergency venues for people to keep warm.

A shelter opened at 9 p.m. on Friday at Fallston High School, 2301 Carrs Mill Road in Fallston, according to Harford County Emergency Manager Rick Ayers.

A warming center later opened at Darlington Volunteer Fire Company, 2600 Castleton Road in Darlington.

"To help assist with those that have been stuck in traffic, the widespread power outages, and temperatures dropping tonight, the Darlington Volunteer Fire Company located at 2600 Castleton Rd in Darlington is now open as a warming center," officials said. "This is a warming center only."

The public may receive messages from emergency management more than once to relay information because "it is critical we reach those people who are in need" during the outage period, officials said.

People are asked to share the message about the emergency shelter and warming center opening with their neighbors, particularly those who are vulnerable or older.

Temperatures are forecast to reach a low of 32 degrees in parts of Harford County overnight, according to the National Weather Service.

As of 8:30 p.m., Delmarva Power was reporting there were 5,329 customers in Harford County experiencing power outages.

BGE was reporting nearly 6,350 customers in Harford County had power outages too.

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency beginning Friday, March 2, in the wake of damaging winds resulting in power outages, downed trees and dangerous travel conditions across the state.

The executive order will allow the state to coordinate support and help local jurisdictions. Dangerous conditions may continue throughout Saturday, March 3.

"I want to caution all Marylanders that these dangerously strong winds will continue this evening and into tomorrow. We are continuing to see a number of serious accidents on bridges and roadways, and power outages throughout the state," Hogan said. "Please use common sense, heed all warnings, and stay inside and off the roads if possible."

Amtrak service has been suspended between Washington, D.C. and Boston because of the fierce winds.

The Hatem and Tydings bridges remain closed due to high winds.

See the latest lane closure information from state transportation officials.

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