Motorists traveling across Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) bridges, including the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, should prepare for significant high wind impacts on Saturday, as strong northwest winds move through the region and prompt potential restrictions, traffic holds, or closures.
Forecast conditions indicate sustained winds of 30 to 39 mph with higher gusts, which may trigger MDTA Wind Warnings. Under these conditions, vehicles more vulnerable to wind—such as house trailers, box trailers, motorcycles, and vehicles carrying rooftop cargo—are urged to use extreme caution when crossing exposed bridges. As winds increase, restrictions may escalate quickly based on real-time conditions at each facility.
If winds strengthen into the 40 to 49 mph range, MDTA may implement Limited Wind Restrictions, prohibiting house trailers, empty box trailers, and other high-profile vehicles from crossing. Law enforcement may deny access to the bridge and assist affected motorists in turning around safely. Should sustained winds or gusts exceed 50 mph, Full Wind Restrictions could be enacted, allowing only select vehicle types—such as passenger cars, pickup trucks, buses, and heavy-laden tractor-trailers—to cross.
In the event of winds exceeding 55 mph, or if sudden dangerous gusts develop, MDTA reserves the authority to initiate temporary traffic holds or full bridge closures to protect public safety. These decisions are not forecast-based, but instead rely on observed wind speeds and safety conditions at each bridge.
Travelers are strongly encouraged to monitor conditions throughout the day Saturday, delay non-essential bridge crossings, and call 1-877-BAYSPAN for 24/7 Chesapeake Bay Bridge updates. Expect rapidly changing travel conditions, reduced speeds, and potential congestion during restriction periods.
