ELLICOTT CITY, Md. (WJZ) – Howard County Executive Ken Ulman declared a State of Emergency in the county, as Hurricane Sandy makes landfall.

Ulman also announced closings for Tuesday because of the storm.

He is urging non-emergency vehicles to stay off the road for the duration of the storm, in collaboration with the directive of Governor Martin O’Malley.

“I cannot emphasize enough the serious nature of what looks to be a once-in-a-lifetime weather event,” Ulman said. “Now is the time to stay in place, be safe and be vigilant.”

Executive Ulman announced the following closings for Tuesday:

• County Government will be closed, including offices, county parks, senior centers, community centers, libraries and the health department.
• Trash and recycling pickup is canceled.
• The Howard County Public School System is closed, including offices.
• Howard Transit service is canceled.
• Howard County Community College – classes and events are canceled.
• Howard County Circuit Court is closed.

In addition, Executive Ulman is passing on that the Columbia Association is closing all facilities as of noon Monday and extending through Tuesday.

Executive Ulman signed an order declaring a state of emergency, allowing him to take

If conditions warrant, directives could be forthcoming that further restrict vehicular and pedestrian travel, as well as some business operations. As needed, a requirement to shelter in place may also be issued.

The County Call Center is activated and available at 410-313-2900. For the latest county updates, go to howardcountymd.gov. Please sign up for NotifyMeHoward at http://www.notifymehoward.org to receive the latest alerts.