LEONARDTOWN, Md. (Feb. 04, 2010) - The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning which will take effect on Friday morning at 10 a.m. and will remain in effect until Saturday night at 10 p.m. There is now the potential to receive 16 to 24 inches of snow in St. Mary's County. Heaviest snowfall is expected between sunset on Friday and sunset on Saturday. The snow is predicted to begin around noon on Friday and conditions will deteriorate rapidly Friday afternoon.
There is also a likelihood of sleet mixtures which could contribute to possible power outages if ice accumulation occurs. It is reported that this storm has the potential to have blizzard like conditions due to a combination of heavy snow and strong winds between 15 to 25 mph and gusts up to 35 mph. Citizens are advised that travel will be difficult starting Friday afternoon due to low visibility and hazardous roadway conditions. Travel may be nearly impossible Friday night and throughout Saturday.
Please take precautionary measures prior to this system moving into our area to include gathering items that may be needed for your home and family, especially food and water, medications and baby items. Be prepared for possible power outages by ensuring that you have possible back-up heating sources, service generators and be sure to have plenty of blankets and winter clothing on hand.
To learn more on how to prepare before, during and after a winter storm, please visit the FEMA web-site at http://www.fema.gov/hazard/winter/. For Emergency Information visit the St. Mary's County web-site at http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/ for advisories and during emergencies the St. Mary's County Emergency Hotline will be updated, for information call 301-475-4200 Ext. 4911.