The Maryland State Police have activated the Snow Emergency Plan for Calvert County and St. Mary’s County as of February 11, 2025, due to rapidly deteriorating road conditions. The accumulation of snow has made travel hazardous, prompting officials to urge motorists to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The Snow Emergency Plan is designed to allow emergency responders and State Highway Administration personnel to clear major roadways efficiently, ensuring they are safe for normal vehicular travel as soon as possible.
In Calvert County, the Snow Emergency Plan was officially implemented at 2:30 p.m., while in St. Mary’s County, the declaration went into effect at 2:00 p.m. Officials cite the quick accumulation of snow and the increasing difficulty of maintaining safe travel conditions as the primary reasons for activation. The emergency status will remain in effect until road conditions improve and authorities determine it is safe for normal vehicular traffic to resume.
While the plan remains in place, motorists are reminded of the restrictions on snow emergency routes. Vehicles may not travel on these designated highways unless equipped with chains or snow tires on at least one wheel at each end of a driving axle. Additionally, parking on snow emergency routes is prohibited during the emergency period. Any vehicle found in violation of this restriction is subject to towing by law enforcement or the Department of State Police. These measures are in place to keep major routes clear for snow removal efforts and to prevent stranded or stuck vehicles from obstructing emergency response operations.
State and local officials continue to monitor conditions closely, and updates will be provided as necessary. Drivers are encouraged to check real-time road conditions through the State Highway Administration website at www.roads.maryland.gov by selecting the CHART option. The Maryland 511 service also provides up-to-date traffic and weather alerts. Travelers can access this information by calling 511 from a landline or a hands-free mobile device or by visiting www.MD511.org. Maryland’s 511 service also offers free text and email alerts through 511Direct, allowing users to customize their routes and preferences for relevant notifications.
There has been no official word yet from Charles County regarding the activation of a Snow Emergency Plan. Residents in the area should stay alert for further updates from local authorities as conditions continue to develop.
Snow accumulation is expected to persist, creating additional challenges for road crews and emergency services. Authorities emphasize that unnecessary travel should be avoided to reduce the risk of accidents, congestion, and disruptions to road-clearing operations. Those who must travel should exercise extreme caution, allow extra time for their journeys, and ensure their vehicles are properly equipped for winter conditions.
Local emergency services and highway crews are working around the clock to respond to incidents and keep roads as safe as possible. Residents are urged to remain indoors if possible and to avoid calling 911 for non-emergency situations to keep emergency lines open for urgent matters. Community members can assist in the recovery process by staying informed, following official guidance, and remaining patient as crews work to clear roads efficiently and safely.
