Laurel residents, we're sending this special midweek edition because significant winter weather is headed our way this weekend, and there's time-sensitive information you need to know.

A high-impact winter storm is forecast to affect our area from Saturday afternoon through Sunday night, with the potential for 8+ inches of snow and major disruptions. We've got the details from the National Weather Service, practical guidance from the City of Laurel's Public Works Department, and important information about Friday afternoon road closures for a funeral procession.

Stay safe, prepare now, and read on for everything you need to know. ❄️

The National Weather Service has issued a warning about a major winter storm expected to impact much of Maryland from Saturday afternoon through Sunday night, with the most severe conditions occurring Saturday evening into Sunday morning.

What to Expect:

Large portions of Maryland—including Central and Western Maryland and the Baltimore-Washington region—are under a high winter storm threat, meaning significant disruptions are highly likely.

Forecasts call for:

After the Storm:

Following the winter storm, a prolonged Arctic cold outbreak is expected next week, which could increase the risk of burst pipes and hypothermia. Prepare now for both the storm itself and the dangerous cold that follows.

This is a serious weather event with the potential for widespread impact across Maryland. Preparation ahead of time is strongly advised. Stock up on essentials, charge devices, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.

The City of Laurel's Public Works Department has issued important guidelines to help crews clear streets safely and efficiently during this weekend's snow event. Please keep the following in mind:

Parking & Snow Routes:

On snow emergency routes, remember "Odd is OK" for parking. Vehicles obstructing plows on these routes can and will be towed. Know your street's rules and park accordingly.

Waste Collection:

Shoveling Safely:

Road Safety:

Give plows and salt trucks plenty of space to operate! Our Public Works crews will be working around the clock to keep roads clear—please be patient and drive carefully.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our community safe and clear! 🚜

On Friday afternoon, January 23rd, a funeral procession will take place for fallen D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer Terry Bennett, traveling from Washington, D.C. to Laurel, Maryland.

Officer Bennett, 32, was struck by a car while helping another motorist whose vehicle had broken down on Interstate 695 on December 23rd. He was hospitalized with serious injuries and passed away on January 7th.

Road Closures:

Between 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM on Friday, the following roadways will have rolling closures due to the funeral procession:

In Maryland:

Additional closures will occur in D.C., including portions of the Capital Beltway, Suitland Parkway, and DC-295. See the full list of road closures here.

Plan ahead if you'll be traveling through these areas Friday afternoon. Allow extra time and consider alternate routes.

Our thoughts are with Officer Bennett's family, friends, and fellow officers during this difficult time. 🙏

This weekend's winter storm is significant, and preparation is key. Stock up on essentials today, charge your devices, clear your sidewalks promptly, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.

If you need to be out on Friday afternoon, plan for delays due to the funeral procession. And most importantly—give our Public Works crews space to do their jobs safely.

We'll be back with our regular Tuesday edition next week. Stay warm, stay safe, and take care of each other.

— Mike Mondy
Founder, I❤️LAUREL

P.S. - For real-time weather updates, follow the National Weather Service and check the City of Laurel website for collection delays and street clearing updates.