Winter Storm Preparations

Glen Burnie, Maryland (February 19, 2019) The Office of Emergency Management is tracking a winter storm that is expected to reach Anne Arundel County starting as early as 5 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19, 2019. Current models show snowfall predictions of 4-6 inches in certain areas. We remind citizens to prepare now for the approaching winter weather.

Citizens are advised to follow the injury prevention tips and general preparedness steps listed below.

Injury Prevention Tips

• Avoid overexertion; pace physical activity while shoveling snow, moving vehicles or exercising outdoors regardless of age or physical condition;
• Wear several layers of clothing including hats, gloves and waterproof boots when outdoors to prevent hypothermia;
• Bring pets indoors;
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who may need assistance;
• Avoid traveling during dangerous road and weather conditions;
• If travel is necessary:
  • Reduce speed when traveling and increase distance between vehicles
  • Clear snow from vehicle hood, roof and windows before traveling;
• Never use or operate gas powered generators indoors or inside a garage;
• Clear snow-covered sidewalks that abut your property;
• Safely engage in outdoor activities such as sleigh riding and use of ATVs and snow mobiles away from roadways and outside of wooded areas;
• Maintain perishable foods at safe temperatures during extended power outages; and
• When life threatening emergencies occur, call 9-1-1.

General Preparedness Steps

• Have flashlights and radios on hand for power outages;
• Ensure cell phones are fully charged;
• Fill or top off gas tanks and make sure vehicles are equipped with all-weather or snow tires;
• Check the battery life and proper operation of radios, flashlights, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers;
• Have a week’s supply of prescription medicines to keep you, your family and pets well;
• Stockpile a 5 day supply of non-perishable foods and drinking water;  
• Park vehicles in driveways to allow snow plows to operate efficiently and effectively;
• Communicate using email or text messages with family, friends, and neighbors;
• Have extra blankets or sleeping bags on hand for extreme temperatures or power outages;
• Check cancellations or closings before traveling to social gatherings, medical appointments, sporting events, or the airport;
• Monitor the following radio and TV stations or follow us on Facebook or Twitter for frequent updates about the winter storm:

The Department of Public Works (DPW) is making arrangements to staff the Department  Storm Center. Citizens may contact the Storm Center at 410-222-4040 for County road snow removal questions, or may make a “Snow Level of Service Inquiry” at www.aacounty.org/snow. A request for service may be made by telephone or online if we have not met our published level of service for your type of street.

For further assistance with County-maintained roads and storm drains, please contact District Road Operations at:

Northern District        (410) 222-6120

Central District        (410) 222-7940

Southern District        (410) 222-1933

DPW is responsible for maintaining County roads. Maintenance of roads that include highway number is the responsibility of the State Highway Administration (SHA).  For issues concerning a State road, please contact the State Highway Administration (SHA) at 410-841-1002.  

Anne Arundel County will activate the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at 5 a.m.  For information about other non-emergency matters, please contact the EOC at 410-222-0600.  

An alternate format is available upon request.  Contact the Office of Emergency Management at 410-222-0600 or oem@aacounty.org.  TTY users, please call via Maryland Relay 7-1-1.