PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. (7News) — Law enforcement agencies across the National Capital Region disrupted multiple large-scale illegal car rallies overnight, preventing gatherings in Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, and Howard counties.

According to Maryland State Police (MSP), the Maryland Car Rally Task Force, which consisted of MSP and local departments from Prince George’s, Montgomery, Howard, and Baltimore counties, Baltimore City, and the Maryland Transportation Authority Police, launched a coordinated operation at 10 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 21, which continued until 4 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 22.

Officials said high-visibility patrols and early intervention efforts stopped crowds numbering about 300 in some places from staging street takeovers involving exhibition driving, disorderly conduct, and roadway shutdowns.

MSP said enforcement operations occurred at several locations, including Bowie, Camp Springs, Silver Spring, Upper Marlboro, Chevy Chase, Forestville, and Hanover.

In Camp Springs, troopers arrested the driver and passenger of a black Dodge Charger. Police identified the driver as Jossel Joan Maldonado Sanabria, 19, of Fayetteville, North Carolina. His passenger, a 17-year-old from Falls Church, Virginia, was also taken into custody.

Both face an individual charge of possession of a loaded firearm and were taken to the Prince George’s County Detention Center, according to MSP.

Press release by Maryland Department of Emergency Management: Governor Wes Moore today declared a State of Preparedness ahead of a potentially hazardous winter weather system that is expected to bring heavy snow across Maryland. The storm will likely affect roads and transportation centers and could cause significant snow accumulation and hazardous travel conditions in some parts of the state. Marylanders are cautioned to avoid travel if possible, to follow local forecasts, and to stay prepared for winter storm hazards.

“In declaring a State of Preparedness for Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts across state government in advance of the incoming winter storm,” said Gov. Moore. “The safety of Maryland families comes first. I am urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans, including postponing travel, as conditions change.”

A State of Preparedness enhances the State’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats before escalating response, providing an easier path for information sharing and coordination. Multiple State agencies and departments including emergency management, transportation, law enforcement, and public health are coordinating to prepare for the storm.

Marylanders should prepare for travel disruptions as this storm moves through the region. At a minimum, most residents can expect delays and hazardous driving conditions, and impacts could become significantly worse depending on the storm’s exact track and snowfall rates. According to the National Weather Service, the weather system is expected to significantly impact the region beginning Sunday afternoon to evening, bringing multiple threats that require heightened awareness and preparedness from Marylanders and those visiting our State.

Marylanders can expect the following during this weather event:

Snow Threat:

• Beginning Sunday afternoon-evening, with peak impacts Sunday night into Monday morning.
• Accumulating snow will impact the state on Sunday evening into Monday morning.
• A hard freeze is expected Monday night into Tuesday morning.
• Heavy wet snow combined with strong winds may result in isolated or scattered power outages on Monday.
• Potential impacts include significant travel delays, closures, and threats to life and property.
• Plan ahead to minimize impact on you and your family.

“MDEM is actively monitoring this storm and working closely with our state and local partners to prepare for potential impacts across Maryland,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “We are planning for the possibility of heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions. Marylanders should stay informed, make their preparations now, and be ready to adjust plans as conditions change. If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home, and always follow guidance from local officials.”

Detailed snow and ice totals will be updated regularly on the National Weather Service website.

Preparedness Recommendations:

• Stay informed by regularly checking weather updates from official sources and be sure to have a way to access local forecasts and warnings.
• Have an emergency kit ready and a family emergency plan in place.
• Heed all warnings and stay indoors during severe weather.
• Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
• Keep devices charged in case of power outages.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found at mdem.maryland.gov.
• Follow Maryland Department of Emergency Management and regional National Weather Service social media accounts for localized forecasts.
• Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from the home and away from windows, doors, and vents.