City of Laurel Mayor Keith R. Sydnor has declared a State of Emergency effective 9 p.m. Sunday, January 5, 2025. The Department of Community Resources and Emergency Management is tracking a winter storm that is expected to reach the City of Laurel as early as Sunday night into Monday. Current models show snowfall predictions from 8 to 12 inches in certain areas. We remind citizens to prepare now for the approaching winter weather.
“We are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of our community. I ask all residents to follow the parking restrictions, stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, and be patient as our crews work to clear snow and make our streets safe during the storm. Together, we can minimize the impact of this storm and keep everyone safe.,” said Mayor Sydnor.
Under Section 2-177 of the Laurel City Code, a person may not park a vehicle on any street, or on any side of or portion of any street, that is designated and appropriately signposted as a "snow emergency street" during the period in which a snow emergency has been declared and is in effect. The City police, the state police, or the county police may have any vehicle which is parked in violation of this division towed from the street and stored, and the cost of such towing and storage shall be paid by the owner.
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;
- Reduce speed when traveling and increase distance between vehicles;
- Clear snow from vehicle hood, roof and windows before traveling;
- Consider relocating to family, friends or a hotel, when safe to do so, during prolonged power outages;
- Never use or operate gas powered generators indoors or inside a garage;
- Clear snow-covered sidewalks that abut your property;
- 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.
The Department of Public Works (DPW) has been preparing for the winter weather by conducting anti-icing operations by placing a layer of brine on road surfaces. Staff will work through the winter storm event to assist with snow and debris removal questions. DPW is responsible for maintaining City roads.
Maintenance of roads including a 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.
For more information, call Laurel’s Department of Community Resources and Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center at 240-294-1314 and press 2 to be connected to the Emergency Operations Center Manager. TTY users, please call via Maryland Relay 7-1-1.
