Howard County Recreation & Parks

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.

WEATHER ALERT: @NWS_BaltWash (NWS) has issued a TORNADO WATCH for #HoCoMD, in effect til 7 pm, 3/16. Given today’s forecasted severe wx evt, @HoCoOEM is recommending that residents who reside in a mobile home or another structure that may not safely withstand high winds, consider relocating to a sturdier building be4 storms arrive. Currently, NWS anticipates a break in t-storms around noon be4 a line of storms moves thru our area btw 3-7 pm. OEM is also strongly encouraging residents avoid any travel during this period of time. For residents who do not feel they can safely shelter at home during this time, the following @HoCoGov facilities will remain open til at least 8 pm this evening as refuge locations: - @HoCoCommunity Bain 50+ Ctr, 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, #ColumbiaMD; - DCRS’s Glenwood 50+ Ctr & @HoCoRec's (DRP) Gary J. Arthur Ctr 2400 MD 97, #CooksvilleMD; & - DCRS’s North Laurel 50+ Ctr & DRP’s North Laurel Community Ctr at 9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd, #LaurelMD. PLEASE NOTE, these 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 locations, bring any medications, food, & water you will need for the day/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, 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.