MDEM Newsroom - MDEM Newsroom
Winter Storm Warnings Are In Effect for Several Counties in Maryland.
January 18th, 2025Heavy snow expected in certain parts of Maryland beginning 3 AM Sunday January 19 2025. Hazardous driving conditions. Avoid travel. More info: bit.ly/md-alerts
Winter Storm Watch
January 17th, 2025The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Frederick, Harford, Washington, including Baltimore City from Sunday morning through Sunday evening, January 19, 2025.
Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations up to around 5 inches possible.
Marylanders Urged to Remain Cautious and Travel Safely Following the First Winter Storm of 2025
January 7th, 2025
Bitterly Cold Temperatures Forecasted This Week; Another Storm Possible Later This WeekHANOVER, MD (January 7, 2025) — The first major winter storm of 2025 has moved out of the region, but Marylanders should still use caution, stay prepared, and be mindful of hazards when traveling. The storm caused significant snowfall in many parts of the State, including more than 8 inches of accumulation in some areas, and led Governor Wes Moore to declare a State of Emergency on Sunday, January 5. |
| Forecasts call for extreme cold throughout the week ahead and windchills that could reach single digits. Even though the main storm has passed, continue to be mindful of icy roads and remain safe from cold temperatures.
Take Caution on Roads The storm brought significant snowfall and icy conditions to Maryland roads. While crews have been working to treat, plow, and clear roads, some areas, particularly backroads, may be hazardous.
Staying Safe During Extreme Cold Frostbite is damage to your body caused by your skin and nerves beginning to freeze. Symptoms and warning signs include:
WHAT TO DO:
Hypothermia is when you have an unusually (and unsafely) low body temperature. Any temperature below 95 degrees Fahrenheit is an emergency! Symptoms and warning signs include:
WHAT TO DO:
Both hypothermia and frostbite can set in quickly and may progress without the victim noticing. If you’re ever in doubt about how far a condition has gotten or not sure if the treatments above are helping, get medical help immediately. It’s far better to ask a professional and end up not needing them than to wait and discover worse damage later. During the cold days ahead, make an effort to check on vulnerable relatives, neighbors and friends to make sure they are safe and warm. If you or someone you know doesn’t have access to a warm residence, check your local government website for the availability of shelters or warming centers. Seeing the Impact of the Storm You can see snowfall totals, temperature by region, wind speed, and more weather information via Maryland’s Mesonet. You can view a map of Maryland and the 21 and growing Mesonet sites here: https://mesonet.umd.edu/ The Maryland Business Emergency Operations Center (MBEOC) is a centralized hub within the State Emergency Operation Center designed to support emergency management efforts between state agencies, the private sector businesses and other stakeholders during disasters or emergencies. The overall goal of the MBEOC is to facilitate communication, resource sharing, and collaboration to ensure that the private sector can make the best decisions for their employees and business operations and effectively contribute to the response and recovery processes. Learn more about resources available through the MBEOC by checking out their website or emailing questions to beoc.mdem@maryland.gov. For more information on preparedness, visit mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM on X at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at facebook.com/MDMEMA. ### CONTACT: |
Governor Moore Declares State of Emergency, Closes Maryland State Government Ahead of Winter Storm
January 6th, 2025Published: 1/5/2025
- Include blankets, hats, mittens, and other warm clothing in your preparedness kit during winter months.
- Bring pets inside if possible, or create a safe space for outdoor animal companions to keep warm, safe from the elements, and able to find food.
- Winterize your vehicle and keep your gas tank at least half full to keep ice from building up in your gas tank and fuel lines.
- Take precautions to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Keep a supply of driveway salt or non-clumping kitty litter ready to go. You can spread either on outdoor surfaces to combat ice and make them less slippery.
- Check your home’s smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work and have good batteries.
- Check for updates from the National Weather Service, and sign up for MdReady text alerts to receive news about storms, watches, and warnings.
- Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.
- Learn more about safe generator use from the American Red Cross.
- Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
- Watch for symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite – it can set in quickly, especially if you have exposed skin or have been outside in the cold for an extended period of time.
- Please avoid travel if possible. If you absolutely must travel, be sure to let someone know your route and destination before you go.
- Know your evacuation routes.
Governor Moore Declares State of Preparedness Ahead of Winter Storm
January 4th, 2025ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore today declared a State of Preparedness in advance of the elevated winter storm threat to Maryland from Sunday, January 5 through Monday, January 6. The storm will likely affect roads and transportation centers and could cause significant snow accumulation 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.
A State of Preparedness enhances the state’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats before they escalate and provides an easy 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.
A strong area of low pressure is expected to bring the winter storm to Maryland with snowfall beginning Sunday and lasting through Monday evening. Some regions may see significant snow accumulation, though a mix of snow, sleet, and ice is also possible with the storm. Roads are expected to be icy and any unavoidable travel should be done with extreme caution. Detailed snow and ice totals will be updated regularly at weather.gov/lwx/winter.
Preparing Your Home and Family for a Winter Storm
- Include blankets, hats, mittens, and other warm clothing in your preparedness kit during winter months.
- Bring pets inside if possible, or create a safe space for outdoor animal companions to keep warm, safe from the elements, and able to find food.
- Winterize your vehicle and keep your gas tank at least half full to keep ice from building up in your gas tank and fuel lines.
- Take precautions to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Keep a supply of driveway salt or non-clumping kitty litter ready to go. You can spread either on outdoor surfaces to combat ice and make them less slippery.
- Check your home’s smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work and have good batteries.
- Check for updates from the National Weather Service, and sign up for MdReady text alerts to receive news about storms, watches, and warnings.
Information about assistance with energy bills is available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
Generator Safety
- Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.
- Learn more about safe generator use from the Red Cross.
Staying Safe During Winter Storms
- Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
- Watch for symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite – it can set in quickly, especially if you have exposed skin or have been outside in the cold for an extended period of time.
- If you must travel, be sure to let someone know your route and destination before you go.
- Know your evacuation routes.
- If you’re able, check on older neighbors or relatives who may live alone to see if they’re doing well or need assistance.
For more information on preparedness, visit mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM on X at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at facebook.com/MDMEMA.
| For immediate release: January 4, 2025 |
Contact: Brittany Marshall Brittany.Marshall2@maryland.gov |
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Maryland Department of Environment Releases 25 Agency Climate Plans to Meet Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets
December 20th, 2024BALTIMORE (December 20, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Environment today released climate plans submitted by 25 agencies to activate a “whole of government” strategy focused on cutting harmful emissions and building the green economy in line with the state’s Climate Pollution Reduction Plan.
The agency plans include over 100 priority actions to meet the state’s climate goals, including workforce development for installing clean appliances like heat pumps, electrifying vehicle fleets, making state buildings more energy efficient and diversifying the state’s energy portfolio. In June, Governor Moore issued an executive order creating the Climate Subcabinet and directing all agencies to complete Climate Implementation Plans by the end of 2024. State agencies will begin implementing the plans in 2025.
“We don’t have to choose between a green economy and a growing economy — we can, and we must, build both at the same time,” said Governor Moore. “By mounting an all-of-government approach to climate action, we will cut emissions, lower costs, and create more than 27,000 Maryland jobs. I thank my colleagues for their detailed proposals.”
The department also published the first progress report of the subcabinet, led by Maryland Secretary of the Environment Serena McIlwain and Chief Sustainability Officer Meghan Conklin. The report outlines a holistic approach to tackling climate change that prioritizes collaboration and coordination between all principal state agencies, as well as ongoing implementation of $13.5 billion in federal funding that the Moore-Miller Administration has secured since 2023. The report proposes a suite of metrics that will be regularly tracked to ensure agencies are advancing policies and programs that maximize positive environmental, economic and human health benefits for Marylanders.
“This is an unprecedented effort to focus on climate change as one government,” said Maryland Secretary of Environment Serena McIlwain. “I want to thank Governor Moore for bringing all agencies together to contribute to addressing our climate challenge and meeting our goals.”
The Moore-Miller Administration earlier this year announced a $90 million down payment on the state’s climate plan to help make Maryland a leader in clean energy and the greenest state in the country. The administration remains committed to the state’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2031 and achieving 100 percent clean energy by 2035.
Governor Moore’s executive order also directed the Maryland Department of the Environment to take immediate action on climate change by proposing a zero-emission heating equipment standard regulation and a clean heat standard regulation, the Maryland Energy Administration to establish a framework for a clean energy standard, and the Maryland Department of Transportation to undertake several measures to promote clean transportation.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media contact:
Dave Abrams
dave.abrams1@maryland.gov
443-571-8779
“All of government” approach includes energy efficiency, workforce development
7th Annual Maryland Winter Safety Week: December 9–15, 2024
December 9th, 2024HANOVER, MD (December 6, 2024) — As Maryland gears up for another winter season, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is proud to announce the launch of the 7th Annual Maryland Winter Safety Week, running from December 9–15, 2024. This year’s initiative highlights the theme “Resilience Starts at Home,” encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from winter hazards.
Winter weather can present serious risks, from icy roads and power outages to extreme cold and fires caused by improper heating. Every year, winter hazards lead to preventable injuries, financial losses, and even fatalities. Winter Safety Week is about equipping Marylanders with the knowledge and tools to navigate the season safely and confidently. By working together and focusing on preparedness, we can build a Maryland that’s ready to weather the season safely.
Focused on Winter Hazards
Throughout Winter Safety Week, MDEM will collaborate with federal, state, and local partners, including the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to provide Marylanders with critical safety tips and resources. The campaign covers:
- Health Risks from Cold Weather : Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lower body temperature, weaken the immune system, and exacerbate chronic conditions like asthma or arthritis.
- Indoor Heating Safety: Carbon monoxide poisoning remains a significant threat as residents turn to alternative heating sources during power outages.
- Community Support: Residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors, including seniors and those with access and functional needs.
Be Winter-Ready with MdReady
A highlight of this year’s campaign is the MdReady system, a cutting-edge platform designed to keep Marylanders informed before, during, and after emergencies. MdReady text alert program offers alerts in 185 languages, ensuring accessibility for Maryland’s diverse population. To sign up, text MdReady to 211-631 or visit md.gov/alerts and customize your preferences to receive relevant notifications for your area.
Practical Winter Safety Tips
MDEM recommends the following steps to prepare for the winter season:
- Stay Informed: Have multiple ways to receive alerts, including MdReady and trusted weather sources like the NWS.
- Keep a car emergency kit in your vehicle, including winter supplies and essentials. Having a car emergency kit can be the difference between surviving being stranded in a severe winter storm or blizzard and getting frostbite, or worse, dying.
- Winterize Your Vehicle: Check tires, battery, and emergency supplies like a scraper, first-aid kit, and jumper cables.
- Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration offers these tips for safe winter driving.
- Ensure Home Safety: Insulate pipes, test smoke detectors, and avoid using stoves or unventilated generators as heat sources.
Join the Conversation
MDEM will be sharing tips, trivia, and expert advice daily through its social media channels using the hashtags #MdReady and #WinterSafetyWeek2024. Residents are encouraged to participate, ask questions, and share how they’re preparing for winter.
For more tips and updates, visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow MDEM on X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
As we move into the coldest months of the year, preparedness is not just a recommendation—it’s a shared responsibility. Let’s work together to make Maryland a safer, more resilient state this winter. Stay safe, stay informed, and stay MdReady!
Blizzard warning is in effect from 9 pm Wednesday 12/4 to 3 pm EST Thursday 12/5 in Garrett County
December 4th, 2024A Blizzard warning is in effect from 9 pm Wednesday 12/4 to 3 pm EST Thursday 12/5 in Garrett County. Snow squalls could result in travel disruptions. More info at bit.ly/md-alerts
Peach Bottom Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 4
November 26th, 2024
Contact: Brandy Donaldson
Communications Manager, Generation East
309.428.7539
Brandy.Donaldson@Constellation.com
Peach Bottom Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 4
Sirens to sound for three minutes at 1 p.m.
DELTA, PA (Nov. 26, 2024) – Constellation will conduct its semi-annual, full-volume test of the emergency warning sirens surrounding Peach Bottom Clean Energy Center on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at approximately 1 p.m. This is one of two semi-annual tests performed each year.
The warning siren system consists of 97 sirens located in the 10-mile radius around Peach Bottom. The sirens are not a signal to evacuate, but a warning to tune to a local Emergency Alert Broadcast television or radio station. County emergency management authorities activate the sirens.
Peach Bottom Clean Energy Center is located on the bank of Conowingo Pond in York County, Pa. The plant produces enough carbon-free electricity to power the equivalent of more than 2 million homes.
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About Constellation
A Fortune 200 company headquartered in Baltimore, Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG) is the nation’s largest producer of clean, emissions-free energy and a leading supplier of energy products and services to businesses, homes, community aggregations and public sector customers across the continental United States, including three fourths of Fortune 100 companies. With annual output that is nearly 90% carbon-free, our hydro, wind and solar facilities paired with the nation’s largest nuclear fleet have the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 16 million homes, providing about 10% of the nation’s clean energy. We are further accelerating the nation’s transition to a carbon-free future by helping our customers reach their sustainability goals, setting our own ambitious goal of achieving 100% carbon-free generation by 2040, and by investing in promising emerging technologies to eliminate carbon emissions across all sectors of the economy. Follow Constellation on LinkedIn and X.
Calvert Cliffs Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 2
November 25th, 2024
Contact: Brandy Donaldson
Communications Manager, Generation East
309.428.759
Brandy.Donaldson@Constellation.com
Calvert Cliffs Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for Dec. 2
Sirens to sound for three minutes at 12 p.m.
Lusby, MD (Nov. 25, 2024) – Constellation will conduct its semi-annual, full-volume test of the emergency warning sirens surrounding Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center on Monday, Dec. 2, at approximately noon. This is one of two semi-annual tests performed each year.
The warning siren system consists of sirens located in the 10-mile radius around the station. The sirens are not a signal to evacuate, but a warning to tune to a local Emergency Alert Broadcast television or radio station. County emergency management authorities activate the sirens.
Located in Lusby, Maryland, Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center includes two nuclear reactors that can produce enough carbon-free electricity to power the equivalent of more than 1.3 million homes.
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About Constellation
A Fortune 200 company headquartered in Baltimore, Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG) is the nation’s largest producer of clean, emissions-free energy and a leading supplier of energy products and services to businesses, homes, community aggregations and public sector customers across the continental United States, including three fourths of Fortune 100 companies. With annual output that is nearly 90% carbon-free, our hydro, wind and solar facilities paired with the nation’s largest nuclear fleet have the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 16 million homes, providing about 10% of the nation’s clean energy. We are further accelerating the nation’s transition to a carbon-free future by helping our customers reach their sustainability goals, setting our own ambitious goal of achieving 100% carbon-free generation by 2040, and by investing in promising emerging technologies to eliminate carbon emissions across all sectors of the economy. Follow Constellation on LinkedIn and X.