hococommunity

WEATHER UPDATE: Per @NWS_BaltWash, they are no longer anticipating any threat of tornadic activity or severe t-storms to impact our area this evening. However, as a cold front continues to make its way east, the NWS has issued a WIND ADVISORY for #HoCoMD, in effect from 8 pm-12 am, as a sudden onset of strong wings are expected behind this front, w/ west winds of 20-30 mph & gusts up to 55 mph possible. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, esp for high profile vehicles. Addt'l, gusty winds will blow around unsecured outdoor objects & tree limbs could be blown down, resulting in power outages. With this change in the wx, @HoCoGov's 3 refuge locations will NOW be CLOSING at 6 pm this evening.

Following the change in the @NWS_BaltWash's forecast as it pertains to the 2nd round of today's severe storms, now expected to impact our region btw 7-10 pm, the hours of operations for @HoCoGov's 3 REFUGE LOCATIONS have been extended as well. The following County facilities will now remain open til at least 10 pm this evening, 3/16 for #HoCoMD residents who reside in a mobile home or another structure that may not safely withstand high winds: - @HoCoCommunity (DCRS) Bain 50+ Ctr at 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, #ColumbiaMD; - DCRS’s Glenwood 50+ Ctr & @HoCoRec's (DRP) Gary J. Arthur Ctr at 2400 MD 97, #CooksvilleMD; & - DCRS’s North Laurel 50+ Ctr & DRP’s North Laurel Community Ctr at 9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd, #LaurelMD. Again, these 3 locations are not full-service overnight emergency shelters, but will provide a safe indoor place to wait out the storm, along w/ water, showers, & charging stations. If you plan to go to one of these 3 locations, pls bring any medications & food you will need for the evening & be prepared to remain there til the storms pass. If you have a service animal or pet that will join you at a refuge location, pls bring your animal’s crate/carrier, leash, waste bags/litter box, food/water bowl, & enough food for the day. Handlers & owners will be responsible to stay w/ & care for their own animals at all times.

Due to the forecasted inclement weather, @HoCoGov will be CLOSING at 2:00 p.m. today, 3/16 #HoCoMD.