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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
Brittany.Marshall2@maryland.gov
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).
Governor Moore and Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott Update on Response to Diesel Fuel Spill in Harbor East
June 5th, 2025Published: 6/5/2025
- Office of the Governor
- Maryland Department of the Environment
- Maryland Department of Emergency Management
- Maryland Department of Natural Resources
- Maryland Department of General Services
- Baltimore City Mayor’s Office
- Baltimore City Fire Department
- Baltimore City Police Department
- Baltimore City Office of Emergency Management
- Baltimore City Department of Public Works
- Baltimore City Department of Transportation
- 11:03 AM – Johns Hopkins Hospital reported a contained 200 gallon diesel spill at their facility in East Baltimore.
- 12:58 PM – The Baltimore City Fire Department was dispatched to respond to a 911 call for a diesel fuel spill in a marina in Harbor East.
- 2:00 PM – The State of Maryland, City of Baltimore, and U.S. Coast Guard stood up a coordinated response.
- 6:48 PM – Hopkins updated their report to reflect a 2,000 gallon uncontained spill.
Governor Moore Announces $10 Million in Ellicott City Flood Mitigation Investment Through Resilient Maryland Loan Fund
June 5th, 2025Published: 6/4/2025
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today announced $10 million in Ellicott City flood mitigation investment through the Resilient Maryland Loan Fund. The funding will help support transformational flood mitigation projects, including two major infrastructure projects designed to protect Ellicott City’s historic Main Street and surrounding neighborhoods from catastrophic flooding like the deadly events of 2016 and 2018.
“When heavy weather strikes in this community, we aren’t just talking about some road closures and bad traffic, but we’re talking about homes damaged, businesses destroyed, and lives lost. That’s why together, we are investing in mitigation and building a state that is more safe and more sound for generations to come,” said Gov. Moore. “At a time when the federal government has cancelled grants to make communities safer and more resilient, Maryland is investing. And this funding is about making smart investments, fortifying our infrastructure, and saving lives.”
“This funding will help us deliver on a promise: to honor those we lost, protect the community we love, and build a safer, stronger Ellicott City,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “The support from Governor Moore and the State of Maryland demonstrates a shared commitment to long-term solutions. Together, we’re turning tragedy into resilience and creating a model for communities across the country.”
Resilient Maryland Revolving Loan funding can support critical planning efforts such as zoning, building codes, and cost sharing for federal hazard mitigation grants. The fund also invests in a range of projects to support underserved populations during power outages and extreme weather, including: low-impact development, wildland-urban interface management, building code upgrades, and community resilience hubs.
“Today’s announcement is the result of true partnership—from local government leaders to state agencies and our legislative champions in Annapolis,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “Collaboration isn’t just a best practice—it’s a survival strategy. This is what we can achieve when we commit to mitigation before disaster strikes. These two projects are game changers for flood resilience in Ellicott City, and we’re proud to support them through the Resilient Maryland Loan Fund.”
The Moore-Miller Administration continues to prioritize climate adaptation and community resilience through cross-agency collaboration and strategic investments that ensure no Marylander is left behind during emergencies. For more information about the Resilient Maryland Revolving Loan Fund, visit mdem.maryland.gov.
Hurricane Season Begins June 1
June 1st, 2025
Know Your Risks, Know Your Zone, and be MdReady
HANOVER, MD (June 1, 2025) — The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30, and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) urges Marylanders and visitors to the State to have their communication plans, evacuation plans, and disaster supply kits ready in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane impacting our State. Last year’s hurricane season ranked as the third most expensive on record, largely due to its high activity and the occurrence of several Category 5 hurricanes.
“Preparedness cannot wait until a storm is approaching—by then, the ability to make some critical decisions may already be out of your hands”, said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Now is the time to make sure you and your loved ones are prepared. Tropical cyclones do not need to make landfall in Maryland to be dangerous. Their impacts can be felt inland for hundreds of miles, with the potential for tornadoes, prolonged power outages, and catastrophic flooding. I encourage local officials, community leaders, and the media to help share this message: Know your risks, Know Your Zone, and Be MdReady.”
The National Weather Service is predicting another above-average hurricane season this year with 14 to 21 named storms expected, three to six of those being considered major hurricanes (category 3 or higher). Above-average sea temperatures and the continuing La Niña system are some of the contributing factors this year.
Hurricanes and tropical storms pose many risks, including coastal storm surges, flash flooding, and tornadoes. Because large storms are unpredictable and can require rapid evacuations, it is essential to have an emergency plan in place, disaster supply kits ready, and to Know Your Zone. Know Your Zone is an interactive WebApp that allows residents to enter their address and find out if they live in one of Maryland’s designated coastal evacuation zones.
These zones help local emergency officials issue evacuation orders more effectively in the event of storm surge or tidal flooding along the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, the coastal bay, and the ocean on the Eastern Shore. While the Know Your Zone system is designed for coastal evacuations, inland areas are still at risk. Flash flooding, falling trees, and other hazards can be life-threatening far from the shoreline, and evacuations may still be recommended or ordered in these areas depending on the storm. Knowing your risk and knowing your zone ahead of time allows for faster, safer, and more organized evacuations in high-risk coastal regions.
Here are some additional considerations while planning for tropical storms and hurricanes (both of which are types of tropical cyclones):
- Plan now! Do not wait until the peak of hurricane season.
- Build a disaster supply kit for emergencies. Kits should include nonperishable foods, water, important papers, medications, items for children and pets, and cash. Store it in an easily accessible location.
- Have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts, like:
- NOAA Weather radio
- TV, radio, and news websites
- Government websites and social media channels
- Wireless emergency alerts through cell phones
- MdReady and county/municipal emergency notification systems
- Prepare ahead of time for flooding by reviewing your insurance coverage or purchasing home flood insurance.
- Unless you live in an evacuation zone, make a plan to shelter-in-place if it is safe to do so.
- If you are in an evacuation zone (Either A, B, or C), make a plan with friends or family to shelter with them where you will be safer and more comfortable.
- If you have pets or other special needs, contact your local emergency management office to get more information on public shelters and support.
For more information about hurricane preparedness, including sample emergency plans and supply kit information, please visit MDEM, FEMA, the National Weather Service, and the American Red Cross.
Marylanders are also encouraged to stay informed by installing the MdReady WebApp on their devices, which provides instant access to a wide range of emergency notifications and preparedness information to residents and visitors. To install the new WebApp, users can visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow the prompt to easily add the MdReady shortcut to a mobile device home screen or to sign up for text alerts in English, Spanish, or in one of 185 languages.
To find more preparedness information for hurricanes and other hazards, please visit: Know the Threats, weather.gov/safety, or ready.gov. Be sure to follow MDEM’s social media feeds on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and Bluesky
Contact:
Wendy Walch, wendy.walch@maryland.gov, 410-702-3480
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872
Calvert Cliffs Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for June 2
May 29th, 2025Sirens to sound for three minutes at 12 p.m.
Lusby, MD (May 27, 2025) – Constellation will conduct its semi-annual, full-volume test of the emergency warning sirens surrounding Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center on Monday, June 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
Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG), a Fortune 200 company headquartered in Baltimore, is the nation’s largest producer of reliable, emissions-free energy and a leading energy supplier to businesses, homes and public sector customers nationwide, 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 committed to investing in innovative technologies to drive the transition to a reliable, sustainable and secure energy future. Follow
Constellation on LinkedIn and X.
Contact: Mark Rodgers
Senior Communications Manager
Mark.Rodgers@Constellation.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Peach Bottom Emergency Siren Test Scheduled for June 4
May 29th, 2025Sirens to sound for three minutes at 1 p.m.
DELTA, PA (May 28, 2025) – Constellation will conduct its semi-annual, full-volume test of the emergency warning sirens surrounding Peach Bottom Clean Energy Center on Wednesday, June 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
Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG), a Fortune 200 company headquartered in Baltimore, is the nation’s largest producer of reliable, emissions-free energy and a leading energy supplier to businesses, homes and public sector customers nationwide, 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 committed to investing in innovative technologies to drive the transition to a reliable, sustainable and secure energy future. Follow Constellation on LinkedIn and X.
Contact: Mark Rodgers
Senior Communications Manager
Mark.Rodgers@Constellation.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Governor Moore Declares State of Emergency in Response to Historic Flooding in Western Maryland
May 16th, 2025Published: 5/15/2025
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore this afternoon declared a State of Emergency to strengthen the state’s coordinated response to historic flood damage in Western Maryland. The governor announced the State of Emergency declaration during his visit to Allegany County to survey the major damage incurred as the result of Tuesday’s statewide storm activity.
“After surveying the damage and receiving updates on the work still ahead in Western Maryland, I’ve declared a State of Emergency to accelerate our response,” said Gov. Moore. “Today, our thoughts are with the Marylanders who have been directly impacted by this storm, and our gratitude is with all of the first responders, crisis managers, and public servants who raised their hands to support our people in a moment of need.”
The governor was joined by Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russell Strickland, Maryland Department of Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain, Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld, Department of Natural Resources Police Deputy Superintendent Michael Sewell, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney, Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton, Allegany County Commission President Dave Caporale, and Maryland State Police for a situational briefing before surveying flood damage in Westernport.
“Being here in Western Maryland today with Governor Moore and seeing the aftermath of the flooding firsthand is overwhelming,” said Congresswoman April McClain Delaney. “You don’t fully grasp the scale of it until you’re standing here, witnessing it for yourself. We’ve met families who had to evacuate their homes and small business owners now facing tough choices. The damage is real, but so is the strength of the people here. We’re listening, and we’re committed to doing everything in our power to make sure help gets where it’s needed.”
On Tuesday, several communities in Western Maryland experienced more than 5 inches of rain, causing major floods in Allegany and Garrett Counties; and the second highest Georges Creek crest on record. Reports from the impacted area have confirmed a number of damaged structures and utility impacts, including gas line washouts. Transportation routes have experienced washouts and slides, and the Town of Lonaconing’s water services have been suspended as a result of a roadway washout and pipe damage. Water rescues and evacuations were conducted Tuesday afternoon and evening by swiftwater rescue teams from surrounding jurisdictions, including the successful evacuation of more than 200 students and faculty from the Westernport and George’s Creek elementary schools.
Response operations continued on Wednesday with first responders and support assets conducting welfare checks in impacted areas. All county shelters have been closed, and local jurisdictions have transitioned from response to recovery efforts today. While additional rain is expected in the area through the end of the week, no additional flooding is expected.
“No one ever expects disaster to strike close to home, but when it does, the strength and resilience of our communities become clear,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “The people of Western Maryland faced unimaginable flooding with courage and saved lives through the quick action of local responders. Under Governor Moore’s emergency declaration, MDEM will continue to lead a coordinated, statewide response and recovery—working side-by-side with local officials, first responders, and our state and federal partners to support immediate needs, assess damage, and build a path toward long-term recovery. We will not leave until the work is done.”
“Our Western Maryland community has faced unprecedented conditions this week, but we are working together to respond to incidents and help wherever we can,” said Department of Natural Resources Police Deputy Superintendent Michael Sewell. “First responders have stepped up by coordinating evacuations, clearing travel routes, and delivering essential items throughout the affected communities.”
Following the governor’s situational briefing on the flood event and response, the governor joined cabinet members and local elected officials in thanking first responders at Lonaconing Goodwill Fire Hall. The governor then joined Maryland Department of Emergency Management officials and Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton at the Westernport Main Street corridor to survey the flood damage at Westernport fire hall, library, local businesses, and Westernport Elementary School. Throughout the governor’s walkthrough in Westernport, he assured first responders, library employees, and local resident cleanup volunteers that the State of Maryland will continue coordinating in partnership with local, state and federal partners to ensure the community’s full recovery.
“This was a serious test for public safety and health, and we responded with urgency,” said Maryland Department of Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain. “Drinking water systems were damaged, homes were flooded, and families were impacted. We acted quickly to confirm that our dams were operating correctly, offer emergency help for contaminated home heating oil tanks, and support safe debris removal. Our focus now is on long-term recovery, guiding infrastructure repairs, fast-tracking permits, and staying close to communities as they rebuild.”
“I join in thanking the tireless work of our first responders, many of whom experienced flooding in their own homes, who stepped up to keep communities in Western Maryland safe during this major flooding event,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “The Maryland Department of Transportation will continue to coordinate closely with our county and local partners in Western Maryland and provide the Department’s full force of resources to aid in the recovery process. State Highway Administration crews from across the region have worked day and night to evaluate impacted roadways and clear debris. We’ll continue to work with our colleagues in Allegany and Garrett counties to safely reopen roadways and support cleanup efforts.”
Live updates on traffic conditions are available through the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Traffic Incidents and Events page.
Great Maryland Twister Test Set For Wednesday, April 9 at 10 a.m.
April 8th, 2025
Maryland Department of Emergency Management, National Weather Service Encourage Marylanders to Practice What to Do During a Tornado Warning; Alert Will Broadcast Over NOAA Weather Radios As Part of Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week
HANOVER, MD (April 8, 2024) — Maryland residents are invited to participate in the Great Maryland Twister Test on Wednesday, April 9, at 10:00 a.m. to practice what to do in case the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a tornado warning. The statewide drill is being coordinated by the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), NWS, and other partners as part of the 2025 Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week, April 7-11, 2025.
At 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 9, the NWS will issue a statement over National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radios about the tornado drill. Be aware, while an Emergency Alert System (EAS) test code will precede this message, the Required Monthly Test (RMT) code may not trigger some weather radios. This test code will also not trigger Wireless Emergency Alerts over cell phones.
Schools, businesses, community groups, and individuals can practice what to do when a tornado warning is issued by NWS. While everyone is encouraged to participate in the drill on Wednesday at 10 a.m., you can practice at other times too. Families, for example, might want to practice when everyone is at home later in the day.
“Tornadoes can strike with little warning. Whether you are in school, at work, or at home, knowing the safest place to go during a tornado warning is vital and makes all the difference,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “The Great Maryland Twister Test is a chance for families, schools, and businesses to practice their safety plans in a low-stress environment. Taking just a few minutes now to prepare can help save lives when real storms threaten.”
If NWS issues a tornado warning for your location:
- Go to a safe shelter immediately, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
- Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
- If outside, do not go under an overpass or bridge. Lie flat in a low-lying ditch or depression away from trees and vehicles. Cover your head and neck.
- Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
- Use your arms to protect your head and neck. If they are close by, you can also use pillows, blankets, or couch cushions to protect those parts of your body.
- If you are in a vehicle and you see a tornado, stay in your car, buckle up, and lower your head below the windows while covering your head with your arms and a coat or blanket if possible; or, exit the car and lie flat in a low-lying ditch or depression away from trees and vehicles. Cover your head and neck.
- Make plans to go to a public shelter if you can’t stay home.
- Go to NOAA Weather Radio and your local news or official social media accounts for updated emergency information. Follow the instructions of State and local officials.
Tornadoes happen almost every year in Maryland – sometimes even violent and deadly ones. Since 2000, fatalities have been reported from tornadoes in LaPlata (Charles County), College Park (Prince George’s County), and Baltimore City. They are violently rotating columns of air that can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris.
While most common during the warm season in the afternoons and evenings, tornadoes can happen anytime and anywhere in Maryland when conditions are right. They bring intense, damaging winds that are often 80-110 miles per hour, and sometimes devastating winds as great as 150-200 mph that can destroy buildings. These rotating funnel clouds that extend to the ground create a path of damage often as wide as a football field, and sometimes up to a mile wide.
In conjunction with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and the Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS), public and private schools have been given guidance for directing students, faculty, and staff to the safest areas of their facilities during a tornado warning. Schools are being encouraged to practice during the Great Maryland Twister Test at 10 a.m. Wednesday and at other times, if needed.
The NWS Baltimore/Washington Weather Forecast Office, which covers most Maryland jurisdictions, is coordinating this statement and drill in conjunction with their colleagues at NWS Mount Holly (NJ), which covers Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot counties, and NWS Wakefield (VA), which handles Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.
Marylanders are also encouraged to download the MdReady WebApp, which gives instant access to a wide array of emergency notifications and preparedness information to residents and visitors. To install the new WebApp, users can visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow the prompt to easily add the MdReady shortcut to a mobile device home screen or to sign up for text alerts in English, Spanish, or in one of 185 languages.
Since 1950, Maryland has seen around 425 tornadoes, with 9 tornado-related deaths with over 300 injuries. To learn more about Maryland’s tornado history, visit: data.delmarvanow.com/tornado-archive.
Visit our Severe Storms Awareness Week page for more information: mdem.maryland.gov/Pages/severe-storms-week.aspx. To find more preparedness information for severe storms and other hazards, please visit the following websites: mdready.maryland.gov/know-the-threats/Pages/default.aspx, weather.gov/safety, or ready.gov. To receive text alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards that may affect Maryland, text “MdReady” to 211-631, or text “MdListo” to receive alerts in Spanish.
Get MdReady for Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week Beginning April 7
April 4th, 2025
Maryland Department of Emergency Management Partners with the National Weather Service to Highlight Spring Storm Hazards, Urge Marylanders to Practice Tornado Drill
HANOVER, MD (April 4, 2025) — Maryland residents and visitors are encouraged to practice what to do during severe weather incidents as part of Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week, April 7-13, 2025. This year’s theme is “Don’t Get Caught in the Storm – Be MdReady”, and will once again include a Tornado Drill: The Great Maryland Twister Test. The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) and the National Weather Service (NWS) urge residents to be aware of, prepare for, and protect against the most common spring and summer weather hazards.
“Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week is an opportunity for individuals, families, businesses, and communities to be proactive and to take action,” said MDEM’s Secretary Russ Strickland. “We encourage all residents and visitors in Maryland to participate in the Great Maryland Twister Test, review their emergency plans, and ensure they have multiple ways to receive alerts, including the MdReady WebApp and the MdReady text alert system. Taking these steps now will help protect lives, reduce disruptions, and strengthen our communities’ ability to recover when severe weather strikes.”
Marylanders are encouraged to install the MdReady WebApp, which provides instant access to a wide range of emergency notifications and preparedness information to residents and visitors. To install the new WebApp, users can visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow the prompt to easily add the MdReady shortcut to a mobile device home screen or to sign up for text alerts in English, Spanish, or in one of 185 languages.
During Severe Storms Awareness Week, MDEM will focus on a specific type of hazard each day. Severe storms come in a wide variety and can bring different types of weather hazards. MDEM will be covering the difference between Watches and Warnings, common weather threats in Maryland, and precautions you can take ahead of the storm.
Monday, April 7, MDEM will spotlight flooding, one of the most common weather issues in Maryland. Most flood fatalities happen when people try to drive, walk, or swim across flood waters. If you see standing water on a roadway or bridge, it is often difficult—usually impossible—to tell how deep it is or how quickly it is flowing. Remember, Turn Around, Don’t Drown. MDEM reminds everyone that April is Flood Awareness Month in Maryland.
Tuesday, April 8, MDEM will discuss damaging winds. While many people focus on swirling tornadoes as a potential threat, straight-line winds and downbursts can also cause serious damage, as well. Much of the damage from the derecho storm in the summer of 2012 was caused by straight-line winds.
Wednesday, April 9, MDEM will be covering tornadoes. On Wednesday, April 9 at 10 a.m., Marylanders are also invited to join MDEM and the NWS in practicing what to do in the event of an actual tornado warning during the Great Maryland Twister Test Tornado Drill. The NWS will issue a statement over National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radios about the tornado drill. Be aware, while an Emergency Alert System (EAS) test code will precede this message, the Required Monthly Test (RMT) code may not trigger some weather radios. This test code will also not trigger Wireless Emergency Alerts over cell phones.
The NWS Baltimore/Washington Weather Forecast Office, which covers most Maryland jurisdictions, is coordinating this statement and drill in conjunction with their colleagues at NWS Mount Holly (PA), which covers Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot counties, and NWS Wakefield (VA), which handles Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties. While Maryland schools, businesses, and organizations can drill at 10 a.m., they are encouraged to practice their tornado drill any time that day.
Thursday, April 10, will focus on hail. Hail is a ball of ice formed in the extreme turbulence of strong thunderstorms as rain freezes and re-freezes. Sometimes this recycling of the freezing rain allows the ice to grow as large as the size of a softball. Hail is formed only in strong, dangerous storms, and the larger the hail, the more dangerous the storm. If you witness hail, get indoors as soon as possible.
Friday, April 11, will center on lightning safety. More than 98 percent of lightning casualties are suffered by people outdoors. Lightning can strike more than 10 miles away from where rain is falling; most frequent fatalities occur outside of the rain band. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. So, When Thunder Roars, Head Indoors.
Visit our Severe Storms Awareness Week page for more information: https://mdem.maryland.gov/Pages/severe-storms-week.aspx. To find more preparedness information for severe storms and other hazards, please visit the following websites: mdready.maryland.gov/know-the-threats/Pages/default.aspx, weather.gov/safety, or ready.gov. Be sure to follow MDEM’s social media feeds on 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).