UPDATED: Wind Restrictions at 2 Maryland Bridges, Warnings at 3 Others

The Maryland Transportation Authority has put limited wind restrictions into effect at the Bay and Key bridges. In addition, it issued wind warnings for the Hatem, Nice and Tydings bridges on Monday, Jan. 23.

To stay safe, authorities advise keeping both hands on the wheel and slowing down.

Limited wind restrictions — now in effect on the Bay Bridge and Key Bridge — mean winds are greater than 40 mph and the following are prohibited from crossing: house trailers, empty box trailers or any vehicle that law enforcement officials think may not safely cross the bridge. Drivers denied passage will be assisted with turning around.

Winds of 30 to 39 mph trigger wind warnings, transportation officials say. Drivers of the following should use extra caution crossing bridges during wind warnings: house trailers, box trailers, motorcycles, vehicles with cargo on roof racks and any other vehicles subject to high winds.

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the region until 7 p.m. on Monday, calling for gusts up to 45 mph. The strongest winds were expected Monday morning, according to weather officials.

A gale warning is in effect until 6 p.m. Monday for the Chesapeake Bay as well as the Potomac and Patapsco rivers, including the Baltimore harbor. Under a gale warning, winds are 34 to 47 knots, and recreational boaters are advised to seek safe harbor.

Related: Wind Advisory, Gale Warning Issued for Much of State

Pictured are the Bay, Key, Hatem and Tydings bridges, courtesy of the Maryland Transportation Authority and CHART traffic cameras.