Officials Urge Caution To Motorists As Winter Storm Hits Maryland

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A winter weather advisory is in effect.

Rick Ritter has more on road conditions.

The Department of Transportation warns roadways are extremely slick and slippery. They've already put out more than 1,000 tons of salt. Despite their efforts, they still feel the next couple of hours are still a dangerous situation for those driving.

From side streets to main roads, a messy winter mix walloped the state with snow and ice.

"It is what it is," said Nancy May.

It was a one-two punch that just hours into Monday delivered a slick mess to roadways, causing several accidents and car trouble.

"I plowed for years so I know what I need to do but because you have four wheel drive doesn't mean you can stop," said Marlin Henley.

"Those are the conditions you have to be concerned with and fortunately, I don't have to work today," May said.

With at least a few inches and freezing rain expected, SHA is bracing for rush hour chaos.

It's one reason why salt trucks have been out since late Sunday night.

"Expect major delays and expect to go way below normal speed limits because these conditions can get really bad very quickly," said Charlie Gischlar, SHA.

With the main focus on the rush hour commute, some side streets can be forgotten about.

"It seems like it paralyzes the city when it really shouldn't," said Jennifer Palmer.

Conditions that forced several delays and cancellations at BWI Monday and could linger through the state come Tuesday morning.

"Ice is nobody's friend on the highway. If you don't have to go out today, the best bet is to ride this one out at home," Gischlar said.

SHA says they'll continue to treat roads with salt and believe it will be effective with pavement temperatures expected to rise.

They're urging drivers to stay off the road, if possible, so they can have room to do their jobs.