BALTIMORE, MD – Maryland State Police are urging residents to stay off the roads as Winter Storm Fern continues to blanket the state in snow and ice, creating treacherous driving conditions that have already led to dozens of crashes and thousands of service calls.
Since the storm began, troopers have received nearly 1,400 calls for service and responded to 84 reported crashes across multiple counties, as snow, sleet, and freezing rain combined to make travel hazardous. Officials emphasized that the situation remains dangerous, with subfreezing temperatures keeping many roadways slick and visibility limited.
The agency reiterated a clear message to Marylanders: avoid unnecessary travel. If driving is unavoidable, authorities say motorists should completely clear snow from their vehicles and headlights, slow down, and notify others of their travel routes. Drivers are also reminded not to crowd plows, which continue to work around the clock to clear major highways and secondary roads.
Officials noted that bridges, overpasses, and less-traveled routes are freezing first, posing the greatest risk to commuters. The statewide snow emergency plan remains active, and residents are advised to monitor the Maryland Department of Transportation’s website for up-to-date road and weather information.
Winter Storm Fern is expected to continue through the evening, with state and local agencies maintaining heightened readiness for emergencies and power outages. Motorists are being asked to stay weather-aware and to allow emergency crews and plow operators space to work safely.
• Nearly 1,400 service calls and 84 crashes reported during Winter Storm Fern
• Maryland State Police urge residents to avoid nonessential travel
• Statewide snow emergency plan remains in effect amid icy conditions