Montgomery County leaders are urging residents to take winter storm warnings seriously as a potentially hazardous system is expected to bring snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures to the region.
County officials say they are prepared to respond, but stress that public cooperation will be critical to keeping roads clear and residents safe. Accumulating snow and icy conditions are expected to impact roadways, public transportation, and essential services.
County Executive Marc Elrich emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary travel, warning that driving during severe winter conditions puts both motorists and first responders at risk.
“We need people to take this seriously,” Elrich said.
Salt barns are filled and trucks have been treating roads countywide as of Friday morning.
In addition to snow and ice, the county also issued an extreme cold alert in anticipation of temperatures dropping into the single digits next week.
Elrich advised residents to stay indoors and limit time outside.
“Monday is going to be a terrible day to go outside,” he said. “It’s going to be five degrees. Nobody should go outside, nothing you do outside will be fun at five degrees.”
County Council President Natali Fani-González said winter weather events highlight the importance of coordination among county departments, while also reminding residents to take steps to prepare their households and support their communities.
“Do your groceries today and tomorrow, make sure that your neighbors are taken care of, and know that on Monday there i
s no school,” Fani-González said.
County officials say one of their main concerns during winter storms is the potential for power outages, particularly when ice accumulates on trees and power lines. Ice, they note, is heavier and more damaging than snow.
Leaders say the county is prepared to open warming centers and provide shelter if residents lose electricity or heat in their homes.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring local forecasts, follow guidance from local authorities, avoid unnecessary travel, and check on neighbors, especially seniors and those with medical needs, as the storm and extreme cold approach.
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