Weather Archives - The MoCo Show

Montgomery County Issues ‘Cold Emergency Alert’

Published December 23, 2022 at 8:08PM

A Cold Emergency Alert is the highest level of extreme temperature alert issued by the County. It is activated when conditions—temperature combined with wind chill—are forecast to be below 20 degrees. These conditions pose a significant threat to exposed human and animal life. The conditions may include wind chill advisories or warnings from the National Weather Service and/or significant snowfall.

Maryland

Governor Larry Hogan Announces Activation of Emergency Response Operations For Winter Storm, Urges Caution For Holiday Travel

By Patrick Herron

Published December 22, 2022 at 10:58AM

Governor Larry Hogan today announced that the state has activated emergency response operations ahead of the winter storm that is set to enter the region beginning overnight. With the storm expected to create hazardous conditions, state officials are urging Marylanders to closely monitor the forecast and adjust holiday travel plans as necessary, building in extra time in case of delays.

“We have activated emergency response operations in anticipation of this winter storm, which we view as a two-phase event, with the first wave of weather coming in overnight, and the second on Friday into Christmas Eve,” said Governor Hogan. “Marylanders should be prepared for significant impacts to holiday travel, and adjust plans as necessary. As always, it is especially important to give room to crews and plows. We are coordinating our response with local jurisdictions, and will continue to keep Marylanders informed throughout the storm.”

MoCo Government

Montgomery County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Offers Tips to Prepare for the Winter Storm Season

By Patrick Herron

Published December 15, 2022 at 8:59AM

With winter weather, there are several factors that residents should be aware of and prepare for, such as: slippery road/sidewalks, cold temperatures, heavy snow and ice, frostbite, hypothermia, wind chill and power loss.

Highways / Interstates

Maryland State Highway Administration Prepares for Statewide Winter Storm

By Patrick Herron

Published December 14, 2022 at 3:19PM

The storm is expected to begin as a wintry mix for points north and west of the I-95 corridor. Garrett and Allegany counties are expecting icing conditions, so motorists are encouraged to keep updated with forecasts and delay travel in the event of icing. The application of salt brine is used to prevent precipitation from initially bonding to the pavement. Motorists are encouraged to remain home and off the roads so crews can effectively and efficiently treat the roads.

“We’re asking for motorists’ patience while our crews are out doing their jobs, clearing paths for drivers,” MDOT SHA Administrator Tim Smith said. “While we encourage everyone to stay home if travel becomes hazardous, those who must go out should remember that the safest spot for people that have to drive is safely behind our equipment.”

MoCoSnow

Hypothermia Alert Issued for Wednesday (11/9) From 3am Until 8am

By Patrick Herron

Published November 8, 2022 at 5:00PM

Montgomery County has activated a Hypothermia Alert for extreme cold for Wednesday 11/9 from 3AM until 8AM. Expect the wind chill to be below 32 degrees. Wear layers if you go outside. Per Montgomery County:

A Hypothermia Alert is issued for the County when forecasted temperatures, and/or wind chill, in at least part of the County fall below 32 degrees creating a hazardous situation in which hypothermia and frostbite are likely.

Maryland

Governor Hogan Announces Statewide Preparedness Efforts For Remnants of Hurricane Ian

By Patrick Herron

Published September 30, 2022 at 1:16PM

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Larry Hogan today announced statewide preparedness efforts as the remnants of Hurricane Ian move up the mid-Atlantic, leading to coastal flood and gale warnings in the region. Earlier this week, the governor announced the deployment of an Incident Management Team to the State of Florida to assist with the response.

“In addition to sending personnel to Florida to help with the response to Hurricane Ian, we have been preparing on all fronts to deal with the remnants of the storm,” said Governor Hogan. “As we always emphasize with potential flooding events, it is critical for drivers to avoid rising waters—‘turn around, don’t drown.’ We advise Marylanders to watch the forecast closely throughout the weekend and heed local warnings.”

MoCo

Montgomery County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Offers Tips to Prepare for the Summer Storm Season

By Patrick Herron

Published June 1, 2022 at 12:54PM

While it is possible for a hurricane or tropical storm to impact the County, the greater summer weather threats are flooding, hail, lightning strikes, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Thunderstorms can occur singly or in clusters or lines and typically produce heavy rain for a brief period. During severe thunderstorms there is a risk that a tornado could occur.

“During the summer months, it is important to know the difference between a weather watch and warning, and understand that when a warning is announced, it is important to take immediate action,” said acting OEMHS Director Marianne Souders. “I encourage everyone to sign-up for Alert Montgomery to receive emergency updates to protect you and your loved ones.”

MCPS

Weather Information Message from Montgomery County Public Schools

By Patrick Herron

Published May 27, 2022 at 9:46AM

MCPS sent the following community message on Friday morning: “Dear MCPS Families, The national weather service is predicting possible severe weather for Montgomery County throughout the day. MCPS, in times […]

Health

Montgomery County Urges Residents to take Precautions During Excessive Heat

By Patrick Herron

Published May 19, 2022 at 11:45AM

“We encourage residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Acting Director Marianne Souders. “Check on elderly friends, relatives and neighbors to ensure they are not showing signs of heat-related illnesses.”

Extreme heat affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature, which can create dangerous conditions if appropriate safety measures are not taken. Heat may affect air quality, especially in urban areas, and may have a stronger impact on the elderly, children. and sick persons.

MCPS

Weather Information Message for Monday, May 16 From MCPS

By Patrick Herron

Published May 16, 2022 at 12:29PM

Montgomery County Public Schools are preparing for expected severe weather this afternoon. At this time, MCPS will not be dismissing students early, however they could activate a Shelter-in-Place if warranted. This morning Howard County Public Schools announced they would close three hour early today. MCPS sent the following community message on Monday at noon:

MoCo

Sue Palka’s Final Newscast Tonight at 10PM

By Patrick Herron

Published March 23, 2022 at 10:41AM | Updated October 27, 2023 at 9:25AM

After 36.5 years, legendary local meteorologist Sue Palka will give her final weather report tonight on FOX 5. “We know you don’t like it when we “disappear” so that’s why we’re giving you this heads up. My last day will be March 23, so I’m going to help get you through the winter,” Sue said during the initial announcement of her retirement.

Fox 5’s Chief Meteorologist began her career in Richmond in 1983 before being hired by Fox 5 in 1985– and place she has remained for over three and a half decades. “Maury Povich and James Adams anchored our only newscast at 10 pm and Ronald Reagan was the President. I’ve been here so long I’ve seen the Brood X cicadas emerge three times!” said Palka in the announcement from Fox 5.