Following is a statement from the County Executive as of 6 PM this evening.
Winter Storm Update from Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett
6 PM, Wednesday, February 10, 2010
The latest storm is beginning to wind down in Montgomery County. Many challenges lie ahead for our highway crews, public safety responders, utility crews and all others who have worked so hard through difficult conditions — 40-plus inches of snow, power outages, and hundreds of downed trees.
Here’s the latest:
* Earlier today our road crews had to suspend operations during severe blizzard whiteout conditions. This afternoon our road crews resumed their plowing operations. They are working on the primary roadways, and then will tackle our secondary routes before turning to the 4,128 lane miles in residential neighborhoods as soon as possible after that.
* Much difficult work lies ahead of us. In some parts of the County we see snow drifts of up to 16 feet. In all parts of the County expected high winds overnight will challenge our plowing efforts by blowing new and already plowed snow across roadways.
* We are receiving, through the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), 150 trucks from Pennsylvania and North Carolina and 50 more loaders. This brings our complement of equipment to about 1,000 pieces.
* Road conditions are still extremely hazardous and residents are urged to stay in their homes unless travel is absolutely necessary. That way you’ll be safer – and you will make the work of our road crews much easier.
* If you are able to get out of your home and walk about your neighborhood, please check on your neighbors, especially if you know of any frail or elderly persons in your area.
* The latest figures from PEPCO show that there remain just over 3,000 people in Montgomery County still without power. We will continue to give snowplow, tree crew, and other assistance to PEPCO as needed. Residents who are PEPCO customers are reminded that they should call 1-877-737- 2662 to report any outages.
* Also remember that for emergencies, including any downed “hot” or sparking wires especially across the roadway, call 9-1-1. The Police non-emergency number is 301-279-8000. To report snow removal problems or downed trees, call 240-777-6000 or email highway@montgomerycountymd.gov