Updates from Montgomery County

No Ride On Service Today; Shelters to Open at Noon Today; No Charge for County Parking Facilities Today and Tomorrow, Transfer Station to Close Today at 3 p.m. All County facilities, including libraries are closed today.

Montgomery County urges residents to stay in a safe place and avoid traveling today. High winds, the danger of falling trees, and flooding are expected to create unsafe road conditions.

Residents are reminded that Ride On has cancelled service for today.

Shelters

Beginning at noon today (Monday), Montgomery County will open shelters at the following locations: White Oak Community Recreation Center, people and pets, at 1700 April La. Silver Spring; the Activity Center at Bohrer Park for people only, at 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg; and the Mid- County Community Recreation Center for people only, 2004 Queensguard Rd., Silver Spring.

Those going to shelters are advised to bring prescription medicines, critical phone numbers, and any comfort items such as personal pillows. Residents taking their pets to the White Oak shelter are advised that the shelter will be capable of housing dogs, cats, and small animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits. The shelter will be staffed by the County Animal Services Division and the volunteer County Animal Response Team (CART).

The homeless shelters --Gude Men's, 600 E. Gude Dr., Rockville and Progress Place, 8210 Colonial La., Silver Spring are prepared to serve homeless individuals who arrive.

Montgomery County parking garages and lots will remain open Monday and Tuesday at no charge. There will also be no charge at County on-street meters.

The Montgomery County Transfer Station is open, but will close at 3 p.m. Monday.

Residents are reminded to avoid areas subject to flooding, including low spots, canals and streams. Do not attempt to drive on a flooded road, which could lead to becoming stranded or trapped because the depth of the water and the condition of the road is not always obvious. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers, downed wires and other hazards.

A number of areas are already closed due to flooding, including portions of Little Falls Parkway, Sligo Creek Parkway and Beach Drive.

When approaching a traffic signal without power, State law requires motorists to treat the intersection as a four-way stop.

Montgomery County 311 (240-777-0311 from a cell phone) will be open continuously for the duration of the storm. Call 311 for questions regarding County Government services, programs and/or issues, or go to www.MC311.com for online help. MC311.com is available on smart phones.

Call 911 in the event of life-threatening emergencies or call 301-279-8000 for police-related non-emergencies.

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