Residents Urged to Prepare to Stay Home Ahead of Significant Winter and Ice Storm

News Release # 2026-010

Friday, Jan. 23, 2026

With a significant winter and ice storm expected to begin Saturday evening and last through Sunday, Charles County officials are urging residents to prepare now to remain at home during the storm and for at least 24-48 hours after it concludes.

Earlier today, Charles County declared a local state of emergency in advance of the storm to enhance coordination, mobilize resources, and protect public safety. Hazardous road conditions, downed trees, power outages, and delayed emergency response are possible during and after the storm.

Residents are encouraged to change plans now to avoid travel during or immediately following the storm and to take the following preparedness steps:

Winter Storm Preparedness

• Change plans so you do not need to travel during or immediately after the storm.
• Stock emergency water and non-perishable food for each household member, including pets, for several days.
• Have a flashlight with extra batteries readily available.
• Prepare for possible extended power outages:
  • Fully charge cell phones, battery packs, and essential devices.
  • Keep a battery-powered radio or weather radio available for updates.
• If using a generator or propane heater, ensure it is used outdoors only and well-ventilated to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Have a fire extinguisher accessible and know how to use it.
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are operating properly.
• Assemble a first aid kit, and ensure you have:
  • Extra supplies of prescription medications
  • Infant or medical supplies
  • Oxygen and battery backups for oxygen concentrators or other critical medical equipment, if applicable

Vehicle Preparedness
If travel is unavoidable before the storm:

• Top off your fuel tank.
• Ensure your vehicle is winterized, including checks of the battery, antifreeze, oil, windshield wipers, and tires.
• Keep a winter storm survival kit in your vehicle, including:
  • Blankets and a change of clothes
  • High-calorie food and drinking water
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Shovel
  • Ice scraper and snow brush
  • Tow rope and booster cables
  • Waterproof matches

Residents are encouraged to take the following steps to be prepared and stay safe:

• Monitor weather forecasts and official Charles County communications for the latest updates before, during, and after the storm by visiting Charles County's snow operations web page.
• Residents can also get the latest updates by following Charles County on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, X) and signing up for emergency alerts through the Citizen Notification System.
• Stay informed about power outages by viewing the SMECO outage map at stormcenter.smeco.coop. Call 877-747-6326 to report a power outage.
• Always call 9-1-1 in the event of a life-threatening emergency.

Please be advised that limiting travel and preparing in advance will help keep residents safe, allow emergency responders to focus on critical needs, and help our public works team clear the roads efficiently and safely.

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