Talbot County, Maryland

01/06/2025

Category: Emergency Services County Manager’s Office County Council

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Emergency Services staff monitors storm conditions from the emergency operations center.

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Roads Department gets trucks ready to head back out on roads.

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Ben Cannon, Roads Department, clears intersection in Trappe area on January 6, 2025 during Winter Storm Blair.

Winter Storm Blair brought significant snowfall and icy conditions to Talbot County, and local crews are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of residents. The Talbot County Roads Department and Emergency Services teams have been on the job around the clock, battling the storm's effects and preparing for potential challenges as wind drifts are expected later tonight.

“Our first priority is keeping residents safe,” said Brian LeCates, Director of Talbot County Department of Emergency Services. “We urge everyone to stay off the roads, especially as drifting snow and strong winds will create dangerous driving conditions overnight.”

The Roads Department has been hard at work plowing and salting roads to keep major thoroughfares passable. Teams are focusing on clearing main routes before moving on to secondary and neighborhood roads.

“Our crews are working in shifts to ensure the roads are cleared as quickly and safely as possible but additional snow and wind is expected this evening” said Mike Steenken, Talbot County Roads Assistant Roads Superintendent. “We ask for patience as we continue to address areas impacted by snow drifts.”

County Manager Clay Stamp expressed gratitude for the dedication of Talbot County employees during the storm response.

“I want to personally thank our Roads & Facilities Department and Emergency Services staff for their incredible efforts during this winter storm,” Stamp said. “Their hard work and commitment to keeping our community safe and operational, often in challenging conditions, exemplify the very best of public service.”

Talbot County Council President Chuck Callahan urged residents to yield to roads and emergency services crews as they continue their efforts.

“If you must travel, please be cautious and give our roads and emergency services teams the space they need to work safely,” Callahan said. “Their job is critical during these conditions, and your cooperation makes all the difference.”

Who Plows Your Road?

Residents can use the Maryland Department of Transportation’s interactive road condition map to identify who is responsible for maintaining and plowing specific roads: https://maryland.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=14f27a6cab51422dabdfb168ca603482. This map provides detailed information about state-maintained roads versus county and local roads, helping residents better understand plowing priorities and responsibilities during winter storms.

Safety Tips for Residents
To ensure your safety during this storm, the county offers these important reminders:

• Stay Off the Roads Unless Absolutely Necessary: Allow crews to work efficiently and avoid putting yourself in harm’s way.
• Don’t Crowd the Plow: Maintain a safe distance of at least 200 feet behind snowplows. Plow drivers have limited visibility, and following too closely can create hazardous situations.
• Drive Cautiously: If you must travel, reduce your speed, leave plenty of space between vehicles, and avoid sudden braking or acceleration.
• Prepare for Emergencies: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, water, a flashlight, and a fully charged phone.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local status on Facebook at Talbot County Emergency Services at @talbotdes and Talbot County Government at @TalbotCountyMDGov using hashtag #TalbotAlerts

Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay home as conditions improve. If travel is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter driving, and be aware of rapidly changing conditions.

For emergencies, please dial 911. Non-emergency storm-related questions can be directed to the Talbot County Department of Emergency Services at (410) 770-8160.

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