City of Salisbury Issues State of Emergency Ahead of Winter Storm

Salisbury, MD - The City of Salisbury has officially declared a State of Emergency in response to an approaching winter storm. This declaration takes effect at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026, and will remain active until city officials or the State of Maryland determine it is safe to lift the order.

City operations will largely continue as officials monitor weather conditions, though some services will be adjusted. The Salisbury Zoo is scheduled to close on Sunday, January 25, as a safety precaution. Changes to trash and recycling schedules have also been announced.

Collections originally set for Monday, January 26, will now occur on Saturday, January 31.

Tuesday pickups will be rescheduled to Wednesday, January 28.

Road safety remains a priority as the storm approaches. The City's Field Operations team is preparing to clear roads, with plowing on residential streets set to begin once snow accumulation exceeds four inches. Major routes will be prioritized before residential districts.

Residents living on designated snow emergency routes must move their vehicles off the street by 1:00 p.m. on Saturday to facilitate snow removal. Officials encourage residents to stay home if possible to keep roads clear for emergency vehicles and plows.

Property owners are reminded of their responsibility to clear sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours after the snowfall ends. A path at least four feet wide is required for pedestrian safety.

Additionally, residents living near fire hydrants should clear a three-foot space around them to ensure emergency access. Snow should not be pushed or thrown into the streets, as this creates hazardous conditions for drivers.

For those in need of shelter, Wicomico County will open a facility at James M. Bennett High School, located at 300 E College Avenue, starting Saturday at 6:00 p.m.

The shelter will remain open through Monday, January 26. Residents utilizing the shelter must bring their own food, beverages, and medications. Pets are not permitted in the shelter but will be transported by animal control to a separate location.

At the state level, Maryland Governor Wes Moore has also declared a State of Emergency. The Maryland Department of Emergency Management has warned of heavy snow, icing, and hazardous road conditions expected to last through Monday.

The Maryland National Guard has been called into state service to assist with response efforts.