The National Weather Service predicts a Winter Weather Advisory for several jurisdictions throughout the National Capital Region and surrounding Prince George’s County.  The advisory remains in effectWednesday, November 26th from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., with the anticipation of snow accumulations 2 to 5 inches in the far northern and western suburbs of Washington and Baltimore.  A coating up to an inch is expected near Interstate 95.

As the Thanksgiving Holiday approaches, residents and travelers are asked to remain vigilant to changing weather conditions and take necessary precautions.  Thanksgiving is one of the most frequently traveled holidays, and the Prince George’s County Office of Emergency Management reminds travelers to practice safe driving tips with the forecast of winter weather precipitation.

All residents are encouraged and reminded to stay Informed and sign up for our new and improved notification systemNotify Me Prince George’s.  The Office of Emergency Management will also keep you updated through Facebook, andTwitter accounts. Citizens can also access emergency notifications from neighboring jurisdictions around the Washington DC Metropolitan region by visiting Capitalert.gov.

If you must travel during the Holiday:

Remember to Winterize your Vehicle and stock it with Emergency Supplies:

• Check brakes, batteries and ignition systems.
• Ensure that your heater and defrost work properly
• Check oil, antifreeze levels and all fluids.
• Test windshield wipers
• Check lights and flashing hazards
• Consider snow tires or chains
• Maintain a full tank of gas
• Carry a winter storm survival kit:
  • Blanket
  • Flashlights (batteries)
  • First-aid Kit
  • Extra clothing
  • Non – perishable foods/water
  • Shovel/sand
  • Jumper cables, tow rope, tools
  • Trash bags, paper towels

 Practice Safe Driving:

• Monitor roadways and weather conditions before your trip by listening to travel radio stations or by dialing 511 for information about traffic or roadways in Maryland.
• Allow extra travel time and drive defensively.  (Precipitation on roadways may present additional challenges)
• Eliminate driving distractions, by avoiding the use of mobile devices.
• Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained
• Monitor your speed and consider taking a slower approach during inclement weather or heavy traffic.
• Remember to slow down or move over for public safety vehicles and emergency equipment

Prince George’s County residents are also reminded to utilize Prince George’s County’s CountyClick 311 system to obtain information about public services and to call 911 only in cases of emergency.

For more information please visit our website news page.