MDEM Newsroom MDEM Newsroom
MDEM Reminds Marylanders to “Know Before You Go” and “If You See Something, Say Something” as Holiday Travel Ramps Up Across Maryland
November 17th, 2025HANOVER, MD (November 17, 2025) — As Marylanders prepare to visit loved ones, celebrate traditions, and travel across the state and beyond, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is recognizing Maryland Travel Safety Week (November 18–24, 2025) by reminding travelers they can take simple actions that can make every trip safer for themselves and others—whether driving, flying, or using other modes of transportation.
“The holidays are about connection—seeing family, sharing gratitude, and caring for one another,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “That spirit of care should also guide how we travel. When we plan ahead and stay mindful, we help everyone get where they’re going safely. We wish all Marylanders a joyous and peaceful holiday season.”
Know Before You Go — Before you head out the door, stay informed and prepared so you know the travel conditions while en route to your destination. Check on road and traffic conditions along your route; check for last-minute delays or cancellations before heading to the airport or train station; and always check local weather forecasts to make sure you pack appropriate clothing and prepare for potential travel delays.
If You See Something, Say Something — If you see a suspicious activity, device, or package, or overhear a suspicious conversation, report it immediately to a facility manager, carrier employee, or law enforcement. If you see accidents or hazards along the roadway or hiking/biking trails, make sure to alert local law enforcement, highway officials, or park employees so they can respond.
About Maryland Travel Safety Week
Maryland Holiday Travel Safety Week is an annual public awareness effort led by MDEM and supported by the Maryland State Police, Maryland Department of Transportation, and local emergency management partners. The campaign encourages residents and visitors alike to prepare before traveling, remain alert, and prioritize safety so that every Marylander can celebrate the holidays safely. You can read through a variety of travel and safety tips here.
For more information, residents can also go to MDEM’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, and follow MDEM’s social media feeds X (Twitter) (@MDMEMA), Facebook (facebook.com/MDMEMA), LinkedIn (linkedin.com/company/maryland-department-of-emergency-management), Threads (threads.net/@mdmema), and Bluesky (@mdmema.bsky.social).
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Maryland 9-1-1 Board Recognizes Excellence in Service Delivery
October 16th, 2025Event Recognized 21 Maryland 9-1-1 Specialists in the State Delivering Exceptional Service
OCEAN CITY, Md. (Oct. 16, 2025) — The Maryland 9-1-1 Board hosted its annual day of celebration yesterday evening, at the Grand Hotel Ballroom in Ocean City. Senator Cheryl Kagan delivered the keynote address following remarks by Secretary Russ Strickland of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management. Twenty public safety telecommunicators were awarded the Telecommunicator of the Year award and Kelsie Spealman of Cecil County was awarded the Marilyn Farndon Excellence in Training Award, presented by Maryland 9-1-1 Board Chair Scott Haas and Vice Chair Tammy Price.
“We are incredibly proud of the professionals who work tirelessly to protect Marylanders and support our communities during times of crisis,” said Secretary Strickland. He continued, “These are extremely important and rewarding careers and we are excited to see this field continue to grow. We are deeply grateful for the selfless role they play and enthusiastically congratulate them on their recognition.”
The annual ceremony honors Maryland’s 9-1-1 telecommunicators and celebrates excellence in 9-1-1 service delivery and training, essential components for effective emergency response. The celebration also recognizes the demanding and life-saving work that is performed by 9-1-1 specialists on a daily basis. “Our 9-1-1 Specialists and our entire emergency system might be the most invisible government employees, and among our most essential,” said Maryland State Senator Cheryl C. Kagan. “We must ensure that they are acknowledged, supported, and provided with the very best technology and training. I am proud to celebrate these courageous women and men through the Day of Celebration.”
Maryland 9-1-1 telecommunicators are the first voices that callers hear during a crisis, and well-trained telecommunicators provide crucial, life-saving instructions and coordinate faster emergency responses. This ceremony recognizes the importance of high-quality training for these professionals to perform at the highest level.
The Telecommunicator of the Year Award recognizes individuals who exemplify superior service delivery and training. This year’s recipients were:
- Sarah Braithwaite, Allegany County
- Kerrie Cooper, Anne Arundel County
- Jolanda Ellison, Anne Arundel County
- Anna Richmond, Baltimore County
- Kaylee Oldewurtel, Baltimore County
- Sarah Hugel, Calvert County
- Monique Mills, Carroll County
- Kelsie Spealman, Cecil County
- Zachary Timchula, Cecil County
- John Hackley, Charles County
- Trisha Rogerson, Charles County
- Andrea Bellevou, Charles County
- Vincent Houchin, Charles County
- Sharde Curley, Charles County
- Brittany Busche, Frederick County
- Valerie Cromer, Howard County
- Riyan Anjum, Montgomery County
- Lt. Michelle Miller, Queen Anne’s County
- Edward Dillon, Queen Anne’s County
- Cory Holm, Queen Anne’s County
- Dale Whitby, Queen Anne’s County
- Amanda Frock. Somerset County
- Christy Coffey, St. Mary’s County
- Hannah Ward, Talbot County
Kelsie Spealman, from Cecil County, received The Marilyn Farndon Excellence in Training. This award honors Marilyn Farndon’s legacy as the founding Executive Director who created Maryland’s first certified 9-1-1 training program. It recognizes instructors who advance standardized, high-quality training across the state for 9-1-1 professionals.
Maryland 9-1-1 centers are actively hiring telecommunicators, statewide. Additionally, experienced professionals can become instructors, shaping the next generation of telecommunicators. Learn more about the rewarding careers and growth opportunities at 911.maryland.gov/pages/careers.
- Secretary of Maryland Department of Emergency Management, Russ Strickland, provided an address to the crowd at the Day of Celebration and congratulated the recognized individuals for their outstanding service. Credit: MDEM/Jim Abels
- Kelsie Spealman of Cecil County was awarded the Marilyn Farndon Excellence in Training Award, which was accepted on her behalf by her supervisor (pictured here). Left to Right: William Frazier, 911 Board Member; Ashley Burgan, Vice President MENA; Tenea Reddick, 911 Board Member; Cynthia Mims, Cecil County; Scott Haas, 911 Board Chair; Russ Strickland, Secretary of MDEM; Christy Collins, 911 Board Executive Director. Credit: MDEM/Jim Abels
- Maryland State Senator Cheryl C. Kagan delivered the keynote address at the 9-1-1 Day of Celebration. Credit: MDEM/Jim Abels
- Twenty public safety telecommunicators were awarded the Telecommunicator of the Year award and Kelsie Spealman of Cecil County was awarded the Marilyn Farndon Excellence in Training Award. Credit: MDEM/Jim Abels
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Maryland Residents Encouraged to Participate in Great ShakeOut
October 16th, 2025Drop, Cover, and Hold On During Preparedness Drill Thursday at 10:16 a.m.
HANOVER, MD (October 14, 2023) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is proud to promote Earthquake Preparedness and encourages Marylanders to take part in The Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills occurring across the Country on October 16 at 10:16 a.m. local time. Over 98,000 people representing approximately 50 organizations, including individuals and families from Maryland were registered as of Friday afternoon. Others are encouraged to register here before the exercise begins.
“While earthquakes are not common in Maryland, events like the one in Mineral, Virginia on August 23, 2011, can be felt throughout Maryland. The Great Shake Out is an opportunity for Marylanders to practice what to do and what NOT to do during a disaster. It’s an important reminder that preparedness is something we can all take part in, no matter where we live,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland.
One of the most frightening and destructive phenomena of nature is a severe earthquake and its terrible aftereffects. Earthquakes can happen at any time of the year and at any time during the day. It is impossible to predict when or where an earthquake will occur, so it is important that you and your family are prepared ahead of time.
A key aspect of the Great ShakeOut is integrating comprehensive science-based earthquake research and the lessons learned from decades of social science research about why people get prepared. The result is a “teachable moment” on par with having an actual earthquake (often followed by increased interest in getting ready for earthquakes). ShakeOut creates the sense of urgency that is needed for people, organizations, and communities to get prepared, to practice what to do to be safe, and to learn what plans need to be improved.
On October 16 at 10:16 a.m. local time you should drop, cover, and hold on for earthquake preparedness;
- DROP to the ground (before the earthquake drops you!),
- Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table, and
- HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops.
More information about earthquake preparedness can be found at The Great ShakeOut, Ready.gov, or Listo.gov.
MDEM invites individuals or organizations participating in Thursday morning’s drill to email pictures to [email protected]. Selected images may be shared on MDEM’s social media platforms.
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CONTACT:
Jim Abels, [email protected], 667-446-0346
Emily Ritter, [email protected], 667-446-0345
Wendy Walch, [email protected], 410-702-3480
24/7 line: 877-636-2872
MDEM Celebra el Mes de la Herencia Hispana – MDEM Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
September 23rd, 2025Destacando la preparación y la resiliencia comunitaria durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana
Hanover, MD (septiembre 23, 2024) — El Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias de Maryland (MDEM, por sus siglas en inglés) se enorgullece en unirse a la celebración del Mes de la Herencia Hispana, un tiempo para honrar la cultura, las tradiciones y el liderazgo de las comunidades hispanas y latinas en Maryland. Del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre, este periodo reconoce las contribuciones que fortalecen la resiliencia de nuestro estado.
“El Mes de la Herencia Hispana nos brinda una oportunidad de destacar el papel fundamental de las comunidades hispanas y latinas en el fortalecimiento y resiliencia de nuestro estado,” dijo Russ Strickland, Secretario de MDEM. “Estamos comprometidos a garantizar que todos los residentes, sin importar su idioma o cultura, tengan acceso a recursos para estar seguros y preparados.”
Este año, Jorge Castillo, Vocero Principal de MDEM, ha sido invitado a participar en el panel del Mes de la Herencia Hispana de la Asociación de Profesionales Latinos de Estados Unidos (ALPFA) el jueves 25 de septiembre. Castillo compartirá su experiencia de liderazgo junto a otros líderes hispanos y destacará la importancia de la preparación en las diversas comunidades de Maryland.
“La comunidad hispana en Maryland sigue creciendo y prosperando,” dijo Castillo. “El Mes de la Herencia Hispana es la oportunidad perfecta para conectar con los residentes y asegurar que el idioma nunca sea una barrera para la seguridad y la resiliencia.”
Consejos Claves de Preparación
- Crea un plan familiar: Todos deben saber qué hacer en una emergencia.
- Arma un kit de emergencia: Incluye comida no perecedera, agua, linternas, medicamentos y documentos importantes.
- Mantente informado: Descarga la aplicación MdListo o suscríbete a alertas en español para recibir información actualizada.
- Inscríbete a MdListo: Garantiza que todos los residentes hispanohablantes estén preparados. MDEM ofrece esta plataforma que envía alertas y mensajes en español sobre situaciones de emergencia, noticias importantes y consejos de seguridad. Para inscribirte:
- Envía un mensaje de texto con la palabra MdListo al 211-631.
- Recibirás alertas y notificaciones en español sobre emergencias, actualizaciones del clima, y más.
Durante este Mes de la Herencia Hispana, MDEM alienta a todos los residentes de Maryland a participar activamente en la preparación para emergencias y a compartir estos recursos con sus familias, amigos y vecinos. Los hispanohablantes también pueden visitar www.listo.gov para acceder a herramientas gratuitas de planificación, guías financieras y de seguros, y materiales para niños y jóvenes.
MDEM también anima a todos los residentes de Maryland a que se conecten con nosotros a través de X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, BlueSky y Facebook y, en particular, a la comunidad hispana a visitar www.listo.gov, donde hay una variedad de recursos en español disponibles para los residentes de habla hispana, incluidas plantillas para planes de emergencia, información financiera y de seguros, programas y juegos de preparación específicos para niños y adolescentes, y más.
Acerca de MDEM
El Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias de Maryland (MDEM) es un líder nacional en la gestión de emergencias que brinda a los residentes de Maryland, organizaciones y socios en la gestión de emergencias información experta, actividades programáticas y liderazgo en la entrega de recursos financieros, técnicos y físicos “para crear un Maryland resiliente donde las comunidades prosperen.” Logramos esto siendo la fuente oficial designada por el estado de Maryland para la reducción de riesgos y la gestión de consecuencias.
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MDEM Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
Highlighting Preparedness and Community Resilience During Hispanic Heritage Month
Hanover, MD (September 23, 2024) The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is proud to join in the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the culture, traditions, and leadership of Hispanic and Latino communities across Maryland. From September 15 to October 15, this period recognizes the contributions that strengthen the resilience of our state.
“Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to highlight the essential role Hispanic and Latino communities play in the strength and resilience of our State,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “We are committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of language or culture, have access to resources to stay safe and prepared.”
This year, Jorge Castillo, MDEM’s Chief Spokesperson, has been invited to participate in the Hispanic Heritage Month panel hosted by the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) on Thursday, September 25. Castillo will share his leadership journey alongside other Hispanic leaders and highlight the importance of preparedness in Maryland’s diverse communities.
“Maryland’s Hispanic community continues to grow and thrive,” said Castillo. “Hispanic Heritage Month is the perfect opportunity to connect with residents and ensure that language is never a barrier to safety and resilience.”
Key Preparedness Tips
- Create a family plan: Make sure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include non-perishable food, water, flashlights, medications, and important documents.
- Stay informed: Install the MdReady app or sign up for alerts in Spanish to receive updated information.
- Sign Up for MdListo
To ensure all Spanish-speaking residents are prepared, MDEM offers this platform to deliver alerts and messages in Spanish about emergencies, important news, and safety tips. To sign up:- Text the word MdListo to 211-631.
- You will receive alerts and notifications in Spanish about emergencies, weather updates, and more.
During this Hispanic Heritage Month, MDEM encourages all Maryland residents to take an active role in emergency preparedness and share these resources with family, friends, and neighbors. Spanish speakers can also visit www.listo.gov for free planning tools, financial and insurance guidance, and materials for children and youth.
MDEM also invites all Maryland residents to connect with us on X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, BlueSky, and Facebook — and especially encourages the Hispanic community to explore www.listo.gov, which offers a variety of Spanish-language resources, including emergency plan templates, financial and insurance information, and preparedness programs and games for children and teens.
About MDEM
The Maryland Department of Emergency Management is a national leader in emergency management that provides Maryland residents, organizations, and emergency management partners with expert information, programmatic activities, and leadership in the delivery of financial, technical, and physical resources “to shape a resilient Maryland where communities thrive.” We do this by being Maryland’s designated source of official risk reduction and consequence management information.
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Governor Moore Appeals Western Maryland Disaster Declaration Denial
August 19th, 2025ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today announced the appeal of President Trump’s denial for a Major Disaster Declaration for flooding that occurred in Western Maryland this past May. Maryland’s initial request was denied on July 22 in a letter from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) which stated assistance to Maryland was deemed unwarranted. Since the President’s initial denial, FEMA has validated an additional $17.9 million in damages, raising the total estimated damages to $33.7 million. This is nearly three times the State’s Federal threshold for assistance.
“Maryland has met long-standing criteria for FEMA support in the wake of historic floods across Mountain Maryland. And this appeal isn’t simply justified, it’s necessary,” said Gov. Moore. “I have stood shoulder to shoulder with Marylanders in Allegany and Garrett Counties, who are still recovering from an unthinkable catastrophe. They are calling on us to support them in this hour of need, and that’s exactly what we will continue to do.”
In the days following the flooding, Allegany and Garrett counties conducted joint preliminary damage assessments in coordination with the Maryland Department of Emergency Management and FEMA. Maryland requested that the president issue a Major Disaster Declaration and public assistance funding after meeting the FEMA-established assistance thresholds. The intensive process validated damages to critical and public infrastructure eligible for public assistance funding.
Historically, if the joint damage assessment process demonstrates eligible costs over and above the county and state indicator, disaster assistance has been awarded by the president. Allegany County’s threshold for FEMA Public Assistance is $321,460 and Maryland’s is $11,674,953.
“We have continued to work closely with Allegany and Garrett counties to capture the damages,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russell Strickland. “We will continue to pursue all possible assistance for the impacted communities to support their recovery.”
In June, Governor Moore announced the first-ever use of the State Disaster Recovery Fund, providing $459,375 in recovery support for individuals impacted by the flooding. In July, Governor Moore announced an additional $1 million in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program funds for families in Garrett and Allegany counties.
FEMA Public Assistance is only available through a Major Disaster Declaration issued by the President. The program would provide funding for Garrett and Allegany counties for repair of critical and public infrastructure like roads, bridges, public water systems and sewage systems. The state also requested access to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides funding to reduce risk of future impacts of similar events.
“I respectfully request that FEMA reconsiders their decision and provides the necessary aid that the residents of Westernport and neighboring towns need to fully recover from the devastating floods of May 2025,” said Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton.
“Maryland’s appeal of FEMA’s recent denial concerning the George’s Creek Flood marks an important milestone for Allegany County,” said Senator Mike McKay. “Working hand-in-glove with Governor Moore’s emergency management team, the process has been seamless and focused on delivering results for our community.”
“Our county government does not have the financial capacity to absorb the full cost of disaster recovery,” said Allegany County Commission President David J. Caporale. “Without federal aid, essential systems will remain at risk. This is not simply a matter of convenience; these are lifelines for public safety, commerce, and the daily functioning of our community.”
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| For immediate release: August 19, 2025 |
Contact: Carter Elliott [email protected] |
Governor Moore Statement on Denial of Federal Disaster Assistance for Western Maryland
July 23rd, 2025Published: 7/23/2025
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today released the following statement regarding the President’s denial of disaster assistance for Western Maryland:
“The devastating floods that hit Western Maryland in May clearly met disaster assistance criteria established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These communities demonstrated a clear need through FEMA’s own process, and Maryland will appeal the decision to seek all available resources to support the recovery efforts. A stationary low-pressure system in the Ohio River Valley produced extreme rainfall between May 12 and May 14, causing Georges Creek to reach a near-record level of 12.41 feet, overflowing into several towns in Allegany County. Rising waters forced evacuations in both Garrett and Allegany counties.
“I requested federal disaster assistance for Allegany and Garrett counties on June 13. The request followed a swift and comprehensive assessment involving an in-depth review of damage costs, community impact and site visits to secure federal support as quickly as possible. Through the coordinated assessment process, FEMA, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management, and local officials estimated more than $15.8 million in emergency response costs and damage to infrastructure, including more than 200 homes, numerous businesses, roads and bridges, railroads, sewer systems, drinking water, and public utilities.
“These estimates are above and beyond the thresholds for disaster assistance set by FEMA. Historically, if the joint damage assessment process demonstrates eligible costs over and above the county and State indicator, disaster assistance has been awarded by the President. Allegany County’s threshold for FEMA Public Assistance is $321,460 and Maryland’s is $11,674,953.
“The State of Maryland immediately took action to make funding available directly to residents and businesses to assist with recovery. The Maryland Department of Emergency Management awarded Allegany County $459,375 from the State Disaster Recovery Fund on June 10. An additional $1 million was made available to Allegany and Garrett counties through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. We will continue to stand with our fellow Marylanders in Western Maryland as they rebuild from the damage caused in May.”
Marylanders Urged to Stay Cautious and Prepared for Possible Flash Flooding
July 14th, 2025ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore is asking Marylanders to prepare for potential flash flooding, heavy rains, and damaging winds brought on by storm systems in the area today. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for much of the State. The risk is greatest for central Maryland with up to 3-inches of rainfall per hour possible in some regions. Urban, low-lying, and previously saturated areas are the most at risk. However, all of Maryland could see significant rainfall as well as high winds beginning this afternoon. Avoid travel, if possible, and make sure that your vehicle has an emergency kit if you must travel.
The storm system around Maryland will create several showers and thunderstorms across the state today. The storms will likely bring significant rainfall and isolated instances of damaging winds. In response, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management will be increasing the State Activation Level and staffing the Statewide Emergency Operations Center beginning at 2pm.
Storms will form in western Maryland early this afternoon, and then spread southeastward later this afternoon into this evening. Storms may linger over the Eastern Shore into the overnight hours. Flash flooding, including possibly significant flooding, will be the primary threat with storms today. A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground.
If your area experiences flash flooding:
- Find safe shelter right away.
- Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
- Depending on the type of flooding:
- Evacuate, if told to do so.
- Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
- Stay where you are (shelter in place).
Keep an eye on the forecast and any emergency alerts, particularly those calling for an evacuation or sheltering in place. Continue to watch your local weather stations, and visit mdready.maryland.gov for more information or to sign-up for free emergency text alerts.
| For immediate release: July 14, 2025 |
Contact: Carter Elliott [email protected] |
Governor Moore Declares State of Preparedness to Enhance Government Coordination Amid Extreme Heat Forecast
June 23rd, 2025ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore this morning signed a State of Preparedness declaration ahead of a potentially hazardous heat wave with dangerously high temperatures for much of Maryland. According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat is expected Monday through Thursday, with increasing humidity during that time, requiring heightened awareness and preparedness from Marylanders and those visiting our state.
“Our top priority is the health and safety of Marylanders,” said Gov Moore. “This State of Preparedness will ensure that Maryland is coordinated and poised to protect our people in anticipation of extreme heat and humidity. We ask that all Marylanders do their part to stay vigilant, stay hydrated, and stay in cool locations as much as possible. Check on vulnerable family members and friends throughout the week to make sure they’re staying safe too.”
A State of Preparedness enhances the state’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats in advance of an actual disaster. The order directs the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of state government ahead of potential impacts from hazards or threats, providing a vital layer of protection for Marylanders without necessitating a State of Emergency.
According to the National Weather Service, Marylanders can expect the following conditions from Monday through Thursday:
- Daytime temperatures in the mid-90s are expected for much of the state with highs possibly reaching 100 or more; heat indices are forecasted for 105-110 and a potential peak of 115.
- Overnight temperatures are expected to remain above 80 degrees across most of Maryland.
- Prolonged heat and humidity will increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working outdoors or participating in outdoor activities.
Preparedness Recommendations:
- Never leave infants, children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
- Increase fluid intake, regardless of activity level. Don’t wait until thirsty to drink fluids; drink more liquid than thirst indicates.
- Avoid “heat hangover;” continue to drink fluids even after strenuous activity, enabling the body to maintain optimum hydration and helping prevent the after effects of heat exposure such as headaches and fatigue.
- Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine, or large amounts of sugar as they dehydrate the body.
- Avoid very cold beverages as they may cause stomach cramps.
- Limit exercise or outdoor activity between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun is at its peak intensity. If active during this time frame, drink a minimum of 16 to 32 ounces of water each hour.
- Some medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, may increase the risk of heat related illness. Consult your physician if you have questions.
- Wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15. Apply at least 30 minutes before going outdoors, and re-apply as necessary.
- Rest frequently in shady areas so that the body’s temperature has a chance to recover.
- If unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, gradually increase the pace and limit exercise or work time.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing; sunglasses to protect the eyes; and a wide-brimmed hat to provide shade and keep the head cool.
- Know where your local cooling centers are located.
- Be aware of new Maryland regulations for working in hot conditions.
“Many Marylanders are at risk for heat-related illness during extreme heat like we are experiencing this week,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani. “Remember to check on those who are particularly vulnerable to this weather — including young children, senior citizens, and people with chronic diseases. Be sure that they have the resources they need to stay comfortable and safe, or help them locate one of the dozens of local cooling centers available.”
For more information about heat preparedness, please visit the Maryland Department of Emergency Management website.
Information about cooling centers across Maryland is available from the Maryland Department of Health.
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| For immediate release: June 23, 2025 |
Contact: Brittany Marshall [email protected] |
Governor Moore Requests Presidential Disaster Declaration to Assist Communities Damaged by Flooding in Western Maryland
June 13th, 2025ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today requested that the White House issue a Major Disaster Declaration to assist Allegany and Garrett county communities impacted by extensive flooding in mid-May. The declaration will make federal assistance programs available to restore critical public infrastructure to Maryland communities impacted by the storm.
“Our communities in Western Maryland have experienced significant impacts to their homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure,” said Gov. Moore. “After a thorough assessment of the damage, it’s clear that additional support is necessary. We must continue to deploy essential resources to ensure a full and robust recovery. This declaration marks an important continuation of that ongoing push.”
Joint damage assessments conducted by FEMA, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management and local officials estimated more than $15.8 million in emergency response costs and damage to infrastructure, including more than 200 homes, numerous businesses, roads and bridges, railroads, sewer systems, drinking water, and public utilities. While the State of Maryland continues to mobilize resources to support the region, the work required to fully recover from the damage will require capacity beyond that of state and local jurisdictions alone.
“With a natural disaster where residents, businesses, and public infrastructure are impacted on this scale, recovery is an all-hands-on-deck approach,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “We are already working tirelessly at the local and state level, but the flooding caused incredible destruction. The addition of much-needed federal assistance is necessary to get those affected back to their regular lives and to allow those communities to fully recover in months instead of years.”
Through the Presidential Disaster Declaration, the State of Maryland may request FEMA Public Assistance for Garrett and Allegany counties to provide additional assistance for recovery to the impacted areas. The state can also request access to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which can be made available under the federal Stafford Act. If approved, support from the programs would help repair crucial infrastructure and publicly-owned facilities in the impacted counties, as well as fund risk reduction projects to ensure that additional devastating impacts are minimized in the future.
To provide additional support, Governor Moore this week announced the approval of $459,375 from the first-ever State Disaster Recovery Fund to support Allegany County’s flood recovery efforts.
Learn more about the federal Disaster Declaration process on FEMA’s website.
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Contact: Brittany Marshall
[email protected]
Governor Moore Announces Disaster Recovery Funding for Allegany County Residents
June 11th, 2025Published: 6/10/2025
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today announced that the State of Maryland will award Allegany County Government $459,375 in financial assistance through the Maryland State Disaster Recovery Fund. The first-ever, state-led recovery and relief funding will support disaster survivors, following extensive flooding on May 13.
“In Maryland, we live mission-first, people always. These funds will help Marylanders get back on their feet in the wake of historic flooding,” said Gov. Moore. “Our administration has taken a comprehensive approach to our recovery efforts – and we will continue to support our people, uplift our communities, and help Western Maryland bounce back. I encourage all affected Marylanders to learn if they’re eligible for additional resources and supports.”
The Maryland Department of Emergency Management worked closely with Allegany County emergency management officials to provide the funding for those impacted by the flooding. Based on data collected through damage assessments showing recovery needs were beyond the county’s means, Allegany County made the request for assistance from the State Disaster Recovery Fund.
The State Disaster Recovery Fund is a form of state-assisted financing given to county and municipal jurisdictions within Maryland for the purpose of providing essential assistance to individuals, households, businesses, and local governments affected by disasters. Local governments may request State Disaster Recovery Fund supplementation for essential individual and household needs such as housing, repairs, and personal property replacement. The Maryland Department of Emergency Management administers the fund.
“Recovery is a whole community effort,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russell Strickland. “Being the first of its kind in Maryland, the State Disaster Recovery Fund is providing critical support to the residents of Allegany County. Financial assistance availability at crucial times like this is what strengthens our state’s resilience and allows our communities to recover.”
A stationary low-pressure system in the Ohio River Valley produced excessive amounts of rainfall between May 12 and May 14, causing Georges Creek to reach a near-record level of 12.41 feet, overflowing into several towns in Allegany County. Rising waters forced evacuations in both Garrett and Allegany. The town of Westernport experienced significant impacts.
Floodwaters caused significant damage to more than 200 homes and businesses. The funding awarded would provide financial assistance to impacted local residents.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support provided by the State of Maryland throughout every phase of our disaster recovery efforts,” said Allegany County Commission President David J. Caporale. “The comprehensive assistance—from multiple state departments—has been extraordinary, and this monetary award through the new Disaster Recovery Program is both timely and impactful. As the first recipients of this program, we recognize the significance of this moment, and we are committed to putting these resources to immediate use to help our neighbors and communities rebuild stronger than before.”
The Maryland Department of Emergency Management is the lead coordinating agency for disaster response and recovery in Maryland. The department has established a state recovery organization with representation from local and state government agencies to fill resource requests, enhance information sharing and problem solving, and address the needs of the impacted residents and businesses in Western Maryland. The department has also coordinated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and state agencies in recovery efforts to mitigate the risk of flooding due to the impacts on the local rivers and streams in the area.
Volunteer organizations have already provided more than $400,000 in estimated support services via the Crisis Cleanup app, including muck out and clean up of residences and businesses across Allegany County. Additional goods, services, and volunteer hours have also been donated in support of recovery that were not captured by the app’s tracking, demonstrating a true whole community recovery effort.
Garrett County and Allegany County residents and business owners are also eligible for disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration Physical Loan program. A Disaster Loan Outreach Center has been opened at 103 1st Street, Westernport, MD 21562, which will serve both Allegany and Garrett counties. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Multi-agency resource and support centers remain open:
- Westernport
- Location: Bruce Outreach Center – 398 Philos Ave, Westernport, MD 21562
- Days & Times: Saturday & Monday 10am – 4pm & Wednesday 1-7pm
- Lonaconing
- Location: Good Will Fire Co Armory – 2 Advocate Ct, Lonaconing, MD 21539
- Days & Times: Sunday & Tuesday 10am – 4pm & Thursday 1-7pm
For more information, visit mdem.maryland.gov and follow the department’s social media feeds:
- X: (@MDMEMA)
- Facebook (facebook.com/MDMEMA)
- LinkedIn (linkedin.com/company/maryland-department-of-emergency-management)
- Threads (threads.net/@mdmema)
- Bluesky (@mdmema.bsky.social).



