Baltimore County Snowfall Guide: Snow Removal, Traffic Updates

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Wow, that escalated quickly. What weather forecasters predicted would only be a slight chance for a few snowflakes on Saturday morning has turned into a forecast of up to four inches for our area and a winter weather advisory. Here's what you need to know about snow removal and what it could mean for traffic in the area.

Who removes the snow in Baltimore County?

Baltimore County public works crews clear snow from 2,700 miles of roadways.

When will my street be plowed?

When less than 6 inches of snow is expected, the county advises it will be plowed within 24 hours of the last snowfall.

If there is more than 6 inches, it will be plowed within 48 hours of the last snowfall.

Traffic tip: Give snow plows room to work and do not try to pass a plow train.

Streets are cleared in the following order: Main arteries, feeder roads, community streets.

Main arteries: Joppa Road, Owings Mills Boulevard

Feeder roads: Goucher Boulevard, Lyons Mill Road

Community streets: Courts and cul-de-sacs

Alleys or private roads are not plowed by the county. Check the Baltimore County stormfighter page to check on plowing priorities.

Also check Baltimore County’s list of road closures due to repairs, accidents, weather or other hazards.

• Winter weather advisory: 4 Inches Of Snow Possible

How can residents help?

• Clear ice, snow and leaves from around fire hydrants and storm drains.
• Do not shovel snow from your property onto the sidewalk or street.
• Park your car off the street wherever possible.
• Report potholes to Baltimore County.
• Check on neighbors needing assistance.

Need tips for shoveling?

• Shovel early and often. Newly fallen snow is lighter than heavily packed or partially melted snow. It is also important to keep a path to your door in case you need to leave in an emergency.
• Push the snow instead of lifting it. Keep the shovel close to your body, and space your hands to increase leverage. If you must lift snow, lift properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs; do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it.
• Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This action requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.
• Do not work to the point of exhaustion.
• Don't pick up that shovel without a doctor's permission if you have a history of heart disease. If you feel tightness in the chest or dizziness, stop immediately.
• Do not let a hat or scarf block your vision. Watch out for ice patches and uneven surfaces. Avoid falls by wearing shoes/boots that have slip-resistant soles.
• Snow is a powerful light reflector on sunny days. Wear sunglasses to prevent "snow blindness."
• Pace yourself. Shoveling snow is an aerobic activity, comparable to weightlifting. Take frequent breaks from the cold and the effort, and replenish fluids to prevent dehydration.

How will this affect traffic?

Since the snow is falling after the Friday evening commute and is projected to be heaviest on Saturday, we'll be spared a rush-hour nightmare in the Baltimore metro area. However, it can still cause problems, so you should monitor the National Weather Service's social media feeds for any updates.

Where to find snow closings and cancellations?
Government closings and cancellations are communicated on the Baltimore County website and social media, including on Facebook and Twitter. School closing announcements due to inclement weather are available from Baltimore County Public Schools.

Photo Credit: State Highway Administration.