Winter Weather Makes a Comeback

After unseasonably warm weather, Mother Nature is sending a reminder that February is, in fact, still winter.

According to the National Weather Service, there's a 100 percent chance of a wintry mix of precipitation tonight. Before 8 p.m. Perry Hall is expected to see mainly rain and sleet. However, it should change over to snow and sleet before 10 p.m., when it will become mostly snow.

Accumulation of 4 to 8 inches is possible overnight. Snow is expected to continue through the Tuesday morning, with accumulation of less than a half-inch.

“If you have a choice not to travel tonight, please don’t,” said State Highway Administration Administrator Neil J. Pedersen. “Our crews will work throughout the night, but depending on when it stops snowing, all routes may not be completely cleared by morning rush hour.  Please check conditions before driving in the morning and allow plenty of extra travel time.”

SHA officials are encouraging drivers to log onto www.roads.maryland.gov and click “CHART” to view traffic cameras, road conditions and incidents along major routes.  

They recommend the following precautions while traveling during the storm:

• Fill your gas tank and windshield washer fluid.
• Clear your car of snow so that you see and be seen by other drivers.
• Make sure your cellphone is charged.
• Have a flashlight with charged batteries, sand or kitty litter and a small shovel in case you get stuck in snow.
• Make sure your all season radials or snow tires are properly inflated and  in good condition.
• Make sure your vehicle’s windshield wipers are working.
• Tell someone the route you are taking in case of an emergency.
• While traveling, give snow plows plenty of room.  The plowed road is behind the trucks, so stay well back and drive on a cleared road.

Check back with Perry Hall Patch for a listing of all school closings and delays.