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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

MDEM Newsroom

MDEM Coordination Role in 2024 Beach Waste Incident

September 19th, 2024

In an effort to clarify roles related to the medical waste incident in the Middle Atlantic region, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) would like to emphasize that we are not leading an investigation into this incident. The Department lacks legal or statutory authority to perform investigations, nor are we equipped with the tools to conduct such an investigation.

Our Department is leading the coordination of State, local and federal agencies responding to the incident. We have been hosting daily coordination calls since the incident began over the weekend, as well as facilitating interstate communication between partners from neighboring Delaware and Virginia. While there is not a single lead response agency, Emergency Management from Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia are in close coordination. 

  • Because the debris has washed ashore over three states, agencies focused first on safety and clean up, and are still working to determine the best course of action as waste is collected and beaches open.
  • State, local and federal agencies which have ownership of the waterfront beaches have been asked to secure any collected medical waste.
  • In Maryland, Ocean City, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the United States National Park Service will continue to collect debris from the coastal areas they are responsible for, and will make decisions related to the reopening of the beaches for recreation and fishing. This is similar to the processes in Delaware and Virginia. These agencies are sharing media inquiries when appropriate to send questions to the correct subject matter expert.
  • This is an ongoing incident and we ask residents and visitors to the seaside areas to follow directions and advice from those responsible for the beaches you wish to visit for information about reopening.

We thank all of the State, local, and federal partners on the Delmarva Peninsula for their collaboration in responding to this incident and we also thank residents and visitors for their patience and cooperation.

 


Governor Wes Moore Issues Executive Order to Strengthen Maryland’s Resilience Strategy

September 5th, 2024
Governor Moore signs Executive Order 01.01.2024.31 Strengthening the State of Maryland’s Resilience Strategy (1)

HANOVER, MD (September 5, 2024) — Governor Wes Moore signed Executive Order 01.01.2024.31 yesterday, strengthening the State’s comprehensive resilience strategy against all hazards. The executive order clearly outlines the duties of the Maryland Office of Resilience (MOR), which is part of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM). It also defines the responsibilities of other State departments, agencies, and universities in their role to provide information and coordination with the MOR. Lastly, it also delineates how the MOR functions as the conveners and coordinators of the Statewide resilience strategy and prioritizes Statewide investments in resilience.

“This executive order underscores the State’s commitment to preserving government functions and safeguarding communities in the face of natural and human-made threats,” said MDEM’s Secretary Russ Strickland. “Our State must be prepared to adapt, withstand, and swiftly recover from disruptions to daily life, whether from climate change, natural disasters, or other emergencies. This executive order solidifies our commitment to shape a resilient Maryland where communities thrive by ensuring that our State’s strategies are coordinated, inclusive, and focused on protecting our most vulnerable communities.”

Key Provisions of the Executive Order:

  • Agency Resilience Liaisons: Each Executive Branch department, along with the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) and Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA), is required to designate an Agency Resilience Liaison (ARL). These liaisons will serve as primary points of contact for resilience-related matters, ensuring that every State agency is aligned with Maryland’s resilience goals.
  • Strategic Investment in Resilience: The Office of Resilience will serve as the central hub for resilience-related funding, planning, and aggregation of data analyses for decision-making across the State. This will include the development of risk-based strategies that prioritize environmental justice and protect Maryland’s most at-risk communities from natural hazards, such as flooding, extreme heat, and winter storms.
  • Comprehensive Resilience Plans: The executive order mandates the development and implementation of Maryland’s two-, five-, and ten-year resilience plans. These plans will focus on mitigating risks to housing, critical infrastructure, and the environment, with particular attention to underserved communities.

Collaboration Across Agencies: The CRO and ARLs will collaborate with State agencies to evaluate and enhance resilience strategies, ensure data sharing, and develop a coordinated approach to resilience investments. This will include updating building codes, providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions, and creating consumer-focused campaigns to educate the public on resilience-building practices.

“This executive order is a crucial step in our efforts to create a safer, more resilient Maryland,” said Mike Hinson, MDEM’s Chief Resilience Officer. “By coordinating across State agencies and focusing on place-based strategies, we will be better equipped to strengthen our communities and ensure a swift recovery from any disruptions.”

The executive order takes effect immediately, and MDEM will oversee its implementation in collaboration with State agencies and partners.


Governor Moore signs Executive Order 01.01.2024.31 Strengthening the State of Maryland’s Resilience Strategy (2)

From Left to Right: Summer Modelfino, MDEM’s Deputy Chief Resilience Officer; Mike Hinson, MDEM’s Chief Resilience Officer; Governor Wes Moore; Russ STrickland, MDEM’s Secretary; and Natalia Medina Ahn, Deputy Legal Counsel, Executive Office of the Governor


Governor Moore signs Executive Order 01.01.2024.31 Strengthening the State of Maryland’s Resilience Strategy (3)


Governor Moore signs Executive Order 01.01.2024.31 Strengthening the State of Maryland’s Resilience Strategy (4)


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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


MDEM Reminds Marylanders that September is National and Maryland Preparedness Month

September 4th, 2024

As Maryland Hits the Height of Hurricane Season, Make Sure You and Your Family Are Prepared For All Hazards

National Preparedness Month logo in maryland colors surrounded by additional white spaceHANOVER, MD (September 4, 2024) — September marks National and Maryland Preparedness Month, and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is urging all Marylanders and visitors in the State to be prepared for all emergencies, to know where to go for information during an emergency, and to have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts.

“Preparedness Month is a time to make sure you and your family are ready for any emergency,” said Russ Strickland, MDEM’s Secretary. “Whether it’s power outages, tropical storms, floods, cyber attacks, or winter storms, it’s vital to stay vigilant, prepared, and MdReady for whatever comes our way.”

Preparing in advance of an emergency is one of the best ways to protect your family from the financial and emotional impacts of a disaster. Flooding is the most common hazard in Maryland, and tornadoes, severe storms, dangerous heat, and severe winter weather are also potential threats. The best financial protection is to be properly insured, whether you own or rent your home. Remember, flood damage is typically not covered by standard property insurance policies.

MDEM also reminds everyone how crucial it is for those who live near coastal areas, the Chesapeake Bay, or its tributaries, to understand Maryland’s Know Your Zone hurricane evacuation program. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity typically occurring between mid-August and late October. To learn more about it and hurricane preparedness in Maryland, visit KnowYourZoneMD.com.

Throughout September, MDEM will share preparedness tips, emergency information, and Public Service Announcements (PSAs) across its digital and social media platforms. These resources are designed to help Marylanders stay informed and prepare for emergencies. Make sure to follow MDEM on its social media channels (MDEM FacebookMDEM X [formerly Twitter]MDEM LinkedInMDEM YouTube, and MDEM NextDoor), and visit the MDEM website regularly for the latest updates and guidance on how to keep you and your loved ones safe.

For more information on how to be prepared for any hazard, you can also visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Weather Service, or the American Red Cross. To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards that may affect Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


Announcement of Upcoming Funding Opportunity

August 27th, 2024

State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP)

State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program

HANOVER, MD (August 27, 2024) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management, the Department of Information Technology, and the Maryland State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) Planning Committee, announced today that they will be releasing another funding opportunity through the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program. The application period will begin Tuesday, September 3, 2024, and will end Thursday, October 3, 2024.


What is the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP)?

Through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), Congress established the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) to “award grants to eligible entities to address cybersecurity risks and cybersecurity threats to information systems owned or operated by, or on behalf of, state, local, or tribal governments.” The SLCGP provides funding to state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments to address cybersecurity risks and cybersecurity threats to SLTT-owned or operated information systems.

How much funding is available?

For FY23, Maryland was awarded $6.4M. The majority of this funding will go towards local jurisdictions, and 25% must go towards rural jurisdictions. Additional funding is expected in future years. This funding will be made available to eligible jurisdictions as sub-grants per the Maryland SLCGP Committee’s determinations.

Who is eligible to apply for funding? 

All local governments in Maryland are eligible to apply. “Local governments” are defined as a county, municipality, city, town, township, local public authority, school district, special district, intrastate district, council of governments, regional or interstate government entity, or agency or instrumentality of a local government; and a rural community, unincorporated town or village, or other public entity. “Rural” area is defined as an area encompassing a population of less than 50,000 people that has not been designated in the most recent decennial census as an “urbanized area” by the Secretary of Commerce (i.e., counties and jurisdictions within counties with a population of 50,000 or less).

What can the funding be used for?

Funds can be used towards cybersecurity projects and services that promote cyber resilience, in accordance with CISA’s and the SLCGP Committee’s priorities outlined in the Maryland SLCGP plan. Grant funding will be awarded based on statutory requirements, demonstrated need, quality of the application, and the ability to maintain federal and state grant compliance.

What are the next steps?

For more information on the SLCGP Application process, please visit the Cyber Preparedness Unit’s funding page or email slcgp.info@maryland.gov.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


Governor Moore Signs State of Preparedness Declaration Ahead of Possible Arrival of Debby

August 6th, 2024

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today signed a State of Preparedness declaration ahead of possible effects from the remnants of Hurricane Debby later this week. While the path is still uncertain, possible effects on Maryland could include heavy rain and winds, inland and tidal flooding.

“The safety of Marylanders is our top priority. By declaring a State of Preparedness, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby,” said Gov. Moore. “Residents and visitors should monitor local weather forecasts, remain vigilant, and be prepared to follow safety instructions from local emergency officials.”Last November, Governor Moore signed an executive order establishing a State of Preparedness, which enhanced 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.

The latest National Hurricane Center forecast for Tropical Storm Debby brings potential remnants into the Mid-Atlantic later this week and into the weekend. At this time, rain, heavy at times, and tidal flooding are the main threats. Uncertainty exists regarding the track over the Mid-Atlantic, which will greatly influence rainfall amounts.

Based on the latest National Hurricane Center forecast, the main impacts would be later Thursday into Saturday. Impacts will be dependent upon how long Tropical Storm Debby sits on the Southeast U.S. Coast and tracks into the Mid-Atlantic.

Preparedness Recommendations:

  • Encourage your family and friends to finish preparedness activities now. Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
  • You may have to evacuate quickly due to a storm if you live in an evacuation zone. To learn if you live, work or vacation in an Evacuation Zone in Maryland, please visit our Know Your Zone page. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay.
  • Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state and local agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
  • Keep your cell phone, tablet and laptop charged when you know a storm is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
  • Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others.
  • Have enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.

To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.

For more information, residents can also go to MDEM’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM’s Twitter feed at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA. You can also monitor power outages through the MdReady installable app and website: MdReady.maryland.gov

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Sara Bender, MDEM Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, Completes Executive Leaders Program at Naval Postgraduate School

August 1st, 2024
Center for Homeland Defense and Security

HANOVER, MD (August 1, 2024) — Sara Bender, Director of Disaster Risk Reduction of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), has successfully completed the prestigious Executive Leaders Program at the Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS).

“We are incredibly proud of Sara Bender’s accomplishment in completing the Executive Leaders Program at the Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security,” said Russ Strickland, MDEM’s Secretary. “Her dedication and hard work exemplify the balance we strive for at MDEM between our immediate responsibilities and ongoing professional development. Despite the significant demands of recent community recovery efforts, Sara managed to excel in this rigorous program. Her achievement reinforces our commitment to developing our talent, ensuring we are always prepared to serve and protect the people of Maryland with the highest level of expertise and resilience.”

In her role at MDEM, Ms. Bender oversees critical areas, such as Disaster Recovery, Hazard Mitigation, Risk Analysis, Communications, and Whole Community Integration. With over six years of dedicated service to MDEM, Ms. Bender’s expertise and leadership have significantly contributed to enhancing Maryland’s resilience and preparedness.

Throughout the hybrid Executive Leaders Program, she collaborated with Homeland Security officials across the nation to address current policy, strategy, and organizational design challenges. This program, offered by CHDS, brings together a diverse group of professionals from emergency management, education, law enforcement, fire service, homeland security, public health, and local government, providing a comprehensive view of the homeland security landscape.

The Naval Postgraduate School’s CHDS is renowned as the nation’s leading Homeland Security educator. The program fosters critical thinking, leadership, and policy development skills among its participants. CHDS is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Preparedness Directorate within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Chas Eby, MDEM’s Deputy Secretary, is also a graduate of the CHDS master’s degree program.

Ms. Bender stated: “Participating in the Executive Leaders Program at the Naval Postgraduate School has been incredibly valuable, and I plan to use the insights and connections gained to enhance our efforts at MDEM to build a safer and more resilient Maryland. I’m excited to put this knowledge to use and work together with Maryland’s communities and partners to reduce disaster risks and handle any challenges in the homeland security and emergency management space that come our way.”

ABOUT NPS: The mission of the Naval Postgraduate School is to provide unique advanced education and research programs in order to increase the combat effectiveness of the U.S. and Allied armed forces as well as enhance the security of the United States. For information, visit www.nps.edu.

About MDEM: MDEM 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.


Sara Bender CHDS

From left to right:  Sara Kay, Executive Leaders Program, Sara Bender, MDEM Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, and Jodi Stiles, CHDS Interim Director

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


Bridging Borders: Strengthening Maryland’s Emergency Management Across Jurisdictions

July 18th, 2024

MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland Crisscrosses Maryland to Engage with Local EM Leaders

Russ at HERicaneHANOVER, MD (July 18, 2024) — Russ Strickland, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), kicked off the #WeCare Tour today which will span across the State. Throughout each stop of the Tour, Secretary Strickland will be engaging directly with the appointed emergency management (EM) directors of the jurisdiction. His goal is to strengthen partnerships that are critical to emergency management success in the State, and to learn about and participate in local innovative initiatives in emergency preparedness.

During his remarks today, Secretary Strickland pointed out that “#WeCare! is the Maryland Department of Emergency Management’s motto.” He continued, “I am here because #WeCare! We care about the survivors, those we lost, and their families. We care about emergency management. We care about being present, responsive, and supportive to you and your jurisdiction. We care about the well-being of you, your staff, and your residents. We care about making Maryland more resilient so that all communities can thrive. We care about leaving nobody behind.”

Secretary Strickland began the #WeCare Tour today with a visit to Anne Arundel County. Secretary Strickland visited the HERricane Camp at the invitation of the County’s Emergency Management Director Preeti Emrick. As part of the annual HERricane Camp, organizers conducted an exercise that morning with the camp attendees — all young women ages 13-21. The HERricane Camp is an innovative program designed to empower young women by providing them with comprehensive training and education in emergency management. The camp aims to inspire the next generation of female leaders in the field of emergency management, fostering skills in leadership, preparedness, and resilience.

The #WeCare Tour

After visiting Anne Arundel County, Secretary Strickland will travel to Garrett, St. Mary’s, Calvert, Allegany, and Dorchester counties, as well as the City of Annapolis and Baltimore City over the next several weeks. Each trip will allow local officials and emergency managers showcase innovative and consequential local initiatives like HERricane, and the Tour offers a platform in which some of these initiatives can be shared with other jurisdictions in hopes that they can emulate best practices in creating similar programs or EM solutions to current challenges. The #WeCare Tour will further MDEM’s mission to proactively reduce disaster risks and reliably manage consequences through collaborative work with Maryland’s communities and partners.

For more information, residents can also go to MDEM’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM’s Twitter feed at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at facebook.com/MDMEMA. 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.

Marylanders are also encouraged to install the MdReady WebApp, which gives instant access to a wide array of emergency notifications and preparedness information to residents and visitors alike. 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 or Spanish.

 

Russ at HERicane

Russ at HERicane

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


MDEM Personnel Recognized at 2024 Maryland Emergency Management Association Symposium

May 31st, 2024

Ocean City, MD (May 31, 2024) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) proudly announced today the recognition of its dedicated staff at the 2024 Maryland Emergency Management Association (MDEMA) Symposium.

Sara Bender, Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, pictured below with MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland and Deputy Secretary Chas Eby, was honored with the prestigious “MDEMA 2024 Emergency Manager of the Year” award. This accolade is a testament to Sara’s unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and significant contributions to enhancing emergency management across Maryland.

Sara Bender receives award

From left to right: Russ Strickland, Sara Bender, and Chas Eby

In addition, Travis Brown, Jorge Castillo, Ed McDonough, and Wendy Walch were awarded the “Emergency Management Project of the Year” for their exemplary work on the Francis Scott Key Bridge Response Joint Information Center. This project exemplifies the innovative and collaborative spirit that drives the success of Maryland’s emergency management initiatives and the importance of clear and concise messaging.

From left to right: Jorge Castillo, Wendy Walch, and MDEMA’s President, Emily Wesselhoff

From left to right: Jorge Castillo, Wendy Walch, and MDEMA’s President, Emily Wesselhoff

Vanessa Calaban was also recognized during the symposium and received her certification for completing the Maryland Professional Emergency Management Program (MPEMP).

Vanessa Calaban

Vanessa Calaban

MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland expressed his admiration for the awardees, stating, “The recognition of Sara Bender as Emergency Manager of the Year, the achievement of Vanessa Calaban completing the Maryland Professional Emergency Management Program, and the acknowledgment of Jorge Castillo, Wendy Walch, Travis Brown, and Ed McDonough for their exceptional work underscore MDEM’s commitment to excellence and the dedication of MDEM staff. These achievements are a direct reflection of our vision to shape a resilient Maryland where communities thrive. Our dedicated personnel are the cornerstone of this vision, continually striving to enhance our State’s preparedness, response capabilities, and leadership in the field of emergency management.”

MDEM remains committed to fostering a culture of resilience and preparedness throughout Maryland. The awards received by our team members at the MDEMA Symposium highlight the impactful work being done to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities.

About the Maryland Department of Emergency Management: MDEM 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.

About the Maryland Emergency Management Association: MDEMA promotes and supports an all-hazards approach to emergency management in the State of Maryland. Originally formed in 1986 as the Maryland Emergency Management and Civil Defense Association, the organization was established to promote and support adequate emergency management and civil defense in the State of Maryland; coordinate the efforts of all members in a common front; protect the lives and property of all persons within the State against natural or man-made disasters or enemy action; evaluate and disseminate the common experience and collective judgment of those specialists trained in and responsible for emergency management and civil defense activities; serve as a clearing house for ideas, suggestions, and courses of action between members; and act in concert with and in a professional advisory capacity to other organizations regarding emergency management and civil defense.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


MDEM Reminds Maryland Residents to Prepare Now in Advance of Predicted Busy Hurricane Season

May 30th, 2024

Remember to Know Your Zone if You Live, Work, or Visit Coastal, Tidal Areas

Know Your Zone Logo FullREISTERSTOWN, MD (May 30, 2024) — With multiple weather forecasting services and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) predicting an exceptionally active 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) urges residents to begin their preparations now. “The NOAA 2024 hurricane forecast calls for more storms than ever before and it is important that all Marylanders take preparations seriously,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland, “High winds, storm surge, tidal and inland flooding can all be deadly consequences of hurricanes and tropical storms.”

NOAA’s outlook, which spans from June 1 to November 30, predicts an 85-percent chance of an above-normal season, a ten-percent chance of a near-normal season, and a five-percent chance of a below-normal season.

Part of that preparedness means you should Know Your Zone if you live, work, or visit coastal or tidal areas in Maryland in case a large storm requires evacuation. The Know Your Zone program allows local emergency officials to order evacuations by letter zones (A, B, and C) to more easily provide information to those in the area.

To determine if you live, work, or visit an evacuation zone in Maryland, please go to KnowYourZoneMD.com and click on the “Find Your Zone” link. Type in the address of the property you are interested in and you will find out if the location is in an evacuation zone. Please note that the zones are for evacuations from storm surge or tidal flooding along the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, the coastal bay, and the ocean on the Eastern Shore. The zones do NOT apply to inland and flash floods.

NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 8 to 13 are predicted to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 4 to 7 major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges.

2024 Hurricane Season Forecast

The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity due to a confluence of factors, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Niña conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds, and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation.

Here are some additional considerations while planning for hurricanes and other hazards:

  • Plan now! Do not wait until the peak of hurricane season.
  • Pay attention to emergency information and alerts.
  • Determine your best protection for high winds and flooding.
  • Unless you live in an evacuation zone, make a plan to shelter-in-place if it is safe to do so.
  • If you are ordered to evacuate, make a plan with friends or family to shelter with them where you will be safer and more comfortable.
  • Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
  • Only use outdoor generators that are at least 20 feet away from your home and away from windows, doors, and vents.
  • If you have pets, make a plan for them, including knowing which hotels are pet-friendly.
  • Never walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, including sample emergency plans and supply kit information, please visit MDEMFEMA, the National Weather Service, and the American Red Cross.

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.

Marylanders are also encouraged to install the MdReady WebApp, which gives instant access to a wide array of emergency notifications and preparedness information to residents and visitors alike. 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 or Spanish.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


MDEM, DoIT Announce Application Period is Open for State and Local Cybersecurity Grants

May 22nd, 2024
State and Local Cybersecurity Grant ProgramREISTERSTOWN, MD (May 22, 2024) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is accepting applications for State and Local Cybersecurity Grants to help keep public agency information systems safe. Applicants must submit their applications to MDEM by Monday, June 17, 2024 at 11:59 p.m.

“We are pleased to work with our partners at all levels of government to help strengthen the information technology infrastructure across Maryland,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Residents expect to safely access information and services from government agencies, and this grant will help to strengthen the resilience of information technology systems.”

The goal of the program is to help state and local governments address cybersecurity risks and threats to information systems. The program enables the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to make targeted cybersecurity investments in State and local government agencies, improving the security of critical infrastructure and resilience of services provided to the public.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are jointly managing the program. CISA will provide subject-matter expertise and determine allowable activities, while FEMA will conduct eligibility reviews and issue/administer the grant awards consistent with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies.

Applying for this award is a multi-step process and requires time to complete. The Maryland Cybersecurity Planning Committee, co-chaired by MDEM and the Maryland Department of Information Technology, has developed two programs to distribute the funds. Applicants are eligible to apply for both programs.

The first is a reimbursable Sub-grant program where eligible entities can apply for funding for their own projects. The second is a Shared Services program where jurisdictions can receive support for:

  • Cybersecurity assessments
  • Vulnerability management
  • Consultations on how to reduce risk
  • Improving security
  • Cyber readiness and resilience
  • Hardening networks from the Department of Information Technology’s Office of Security Management

Please visit this website for more information about the program and step-by-step instructions for creating an application packet. You also may email slcgp.grant@maryland.gov.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
Travis Brown, travis.brown2@maryland.gov, 410-702-3726
24/7 line: 877-636-2872


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