Baltimore braces for winter storm with essentials checklist

(WBFF) — As Baltimore braces for a potentially severe winter storm this weekend, Mayor Brandon Scott urged residents to prepare without panicking.

Forecasters predicted a mix of heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain, which could create hazardous driving conditions.

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Mayor Scott expressed hope that the storm might bypass the city but emphasized readiness. “We’re working with our office of emergency management, DOT (Department of Transportation), fire and police, and all of our local and state partners,” he said.

Starting Friday, the Department of Transportation will begin pretreating roads with brine to prevent snow and ice from bonding to surfaces. Crews will focus on city bridges, hills, overpasses, and key routes like I-83 and Maryland 295.

As the storm approaches, grocery stores are seeing a rush of customers. Baltimore resident Nicolette Narine described the scene as “a little frightening” with packed lines and a sense of panic. However, Mayor Scott advised against scrambling for the “usual” essentials. “Essentials do not mean buy up all the bread and milk in the grocery store,” he said. Instead, he recommended stocking up on water, batteries, flashlights, and other necessities in case of power outages.

Travis Fischer, another city resident, agreed with the mayor’s advice, noting that people often overlook essential items. “They’re assuming that their house is going to be there on and working for them the whole time,” he said.

To assist city residents, the city’s parking authority will open city-owned parking facilities for free during the storm, available on a first-come, first-served basis.