Community Corner

SHA: Expect Road Closures with High Water

The State Highway Administration cautions motorists as high water collects on Maryland roadways.

From the Maryland State Highway Administration

Motorists Should Expect Road Closures for High Water and Trees Downed by Severe Weather

(September 7, 2011) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is closing roadways across Maryland due to high water and dangerous roadway conditions.

Heavy rain of about two inches an hour is moving generally from south to north along the I-95 Corridor.  Reduced visibility and water on roads are making driving conditions treacherous.

Anyone can access live traffic cameras, active road closures and the latest weather information at www.MD511.org or www.traffic.md.gov.  If 511 is not accessible on your land or mobile lines, call 1-855-GOMD511.

Here are some tips for motorists:

Do not try to cross a flooded roadway.  Eighty percent of flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.  Two feet of rapidly moving water can float a bus and six inches can knock a person off his or her feet.

•       Avoid downed or damaged power and transmission wires and cables.
•       Stay alert for traffic signal issues related to power outages.  Use extreme caution and do not assume other drivers will stop or yield.
•       SHA urges motorists to exercise extreme caution as weather conditions change.  If you must drive, please buckle up, obey posted speed limits and leave plenty of commute time.

To keep traffic moving smoothly, SHA will:

•       Provide real-time traffic information and storm-related road closures through Maryland’s 511 phone system and at WWW.MD511.ORG as well as www.roads.maryland.gov where you can click on CHART to see live traffic cameras.
•       Have high water signs and tree removal equipment mobilized.
•       Program overhead Variable Message Signs and Traveler Advisory Radios to inform motorists of crashes, delays and route diversions.

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