MDEM Newsroom MDEM Newsroom

Maryland Strengthens Nuclear Emergency Preparedness through PBEX 2026 Exercise

HANOVER, Md. (May 4, 2026) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), alongside other state, local, federal, and private-sector partners, successfully completed the biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise for the Peach Bottom Clean Energy Center (previously known as Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station) on Tue, Apr 28, 2026. 

The 2026 exercise involved a comprehensive, graded evaluation by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). MDEM coordinated the plume portion of the exercise from the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in conjunction with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), the Maryland Department of Health, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), and local officials from Harford and Cecil Counties. This evaluative training session, commonly referred to as PBEX, assessed the response capabilities of the State of Maryland and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone surrounding the facility in Delta, Pa. Preliminary findings from FEMA indicated MDEM had successfully demonstrated all of the graded criteria. Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions. The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise. 

“Through exercises like PBEX, we not only measure our preparedness but also sharpen our ability to respond and protect communities during emergencies,” stated Maryland Secretary of Emergency Management, Russ Strickland. “Training remains a priority to ensure our collaboration with regional, federal, State, and local partners is seamless.  PBEX tests our capabilities in high-stress, time-sensitive conditions that demand precision, coordination, and endurance, challenging our personnel to operate at the edge of their limits so they’re ready for any crisis.”

The graded exercise is designed to simulate an event at the plant which ultimately results in radiation release. As the scenario progressed, event participants practiced the protective emergency measures that are needed to protect residents in Hartford and Cecil counties, which are located near the energy center, in the event of an emergency. While this type of scenario is unlikely to occur, it is critical that public safety systems are trained and ready to respond to radiological hazards. 

As part of the graded exercise, state and local partners conducted medical service drills on April 22 at Christiana Union Hospital and on April 23 at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center. These drills included EMS assessment, treatment, and transport of patients, as well as hospital emergency department reception, decontamination, and treatment of injured individuals. In coordination with these efforts, Cecil County conducted its drills on the evening of April 22, focusing on emergency worker and vehicle decontamination and radiological monitoring. 

Following the plume phase, MDEM and its partners conducted additional drills on Apr 29, 2026 focused on critical community response tasks, including the activation of reception centers in Hartford and Cecil Counties at Fallston and Rising Sun High Schools respectively. Drills also included school evacuation procedures, and emergency worker monitoring and decontamination. In addition to the graded exercise and related drills, MDEM staff participated in two dress rehearsals with state and local partners earlier this year.

Exercises like PBEX and SAREX reflect MDEM’s continued commitment to training excellence, ensuring personnel and partners remain prepared to respond effectively to emergencies across the State.

MDEM reminds Maryland residents and visitors to always have multiple ways to receive alerts. 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 WebApp, users can visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow the prompt to easily add the MdReady shortcut to a mobile device home screen.

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), Instagram (instagram.com/mdmema), Linkedin (linkedin.com/company/maryland-department-of-emergency-management), Threads (threads.net/@mdmema) and Bluesky (@mdmema.bsky.social).

Maryland Strengthens Emergency Communications through Statewide Interoperability Efforts

Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee Reconvenes To Guide Emergency Communications Policy Across Maryland

HANOVER, Md. (April 27, 2026) — The Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (SIEC) reconvened at Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) headquarters today to set statewide interoperability priorities, identify voice and data communications capabilities and opportunities, and begin the process of revising the 2022 Maryland State Communications Interoperability Plan (SCIP) in order to advance improvements in communications for Maryland’s emergency responders throughout the state. 

“Today’s meeting was another great step toward ensuring that interoperable public safety communications foster effective preparedness, response, and recovery activities,” said MDEM’s Secretary Russ Strickland. “A resilient Maryland depends on our ability to communicate without barriers during emergencies, and interoperability ensures that responders across agencies and jurisdictions can operate as one team, making faster decisions and delivering coordinated support when it matters most. Through the work of the Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee and MDEM, we are building a stronger, more connected emergency response system for all Marylanders.”

When Governor Wes Moore signed Executive Order 01.01.2024.20, he reestablished the SEIC and charged it with providing governance for “public safety emergency communications interoperability, and to promote the efficient and effective use of resources for matters related to public safety emergency communications and interoperability.” This action builds on earlier statewide efforts to formalize governance, strengthen coordination among state and local partners, and expand Maryland’s interoperable communications capabilities, positioning the State to advance these priorities through the 2026 Workplan.

“The SIEC will launch the process to revise the 2022 Maryland State Communications Interoperability Plan (SCIP),” said Jack Markey, MDEM’s Assistant Secretary and Statewide Interoperability Coordinator. “This process will develop strategic, consensus recommendations to enhance public safety voice and data interoperability, reduce costs and technical risks where possible, and also increase reliability and effectiveness.”

Operational communications form the backbone of emergency management. Responders from different agencies and jurisdictions need to be able to communicate clearly and reliably when it matters most. In Maryland, MDEM provides statewide leadership for interoperability by bringing together local, state, and federal partners to align systems, standards, and planning efforts. This collaborative approach does not involve operating individual communications systems, but instead focuses on ensuring they work together effectively during emergencies. Through this coordination, systems such as the FirstNet Public Safety Broadband Network (FirstNet) and the Maryland FiRST radio system, operated by partner agencies, are better integrated across jurisdictions. The result is stronger coverage, faster information sharing, and more effective response for all Marylanders. 

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).

Sec. Strickland sits with the reconvened Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee to guide Emergency Communications Policy across Maryland.

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Emergency Responders Tested During Regional Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) at Gunpowder Falls State Park

Full-Scale Regional Training Exercise Highlights Coordinated Search and Rescue Operations across Air, Land, and Water

HANOVER, Md. (April 24, 2026) — Emergency responders gathered in Baltimore County yesterday to tackle a series of immersive scenarios designed to test their skills, operational capabilities, and interagency coordination.  Centered around Loch Raven Dam Reservoir and Gunpowder Falls State Park, SAREX 2026 spanned 20 square miles of challenging terrain. The exercise used high-fidelity props to test the technical proficiency of responders, while a mix of mannequins and live role players added a critical human element to the triage process.

Joint exercises like SAREX demonstrate Maryland’s commitment to a coordinated, hazard-agnostic approach to emergency management, said Russ Strickland, Maryland’s Secretary of Emergency Management. “By bringing together partners from across  jurisdictions and disciplines, we are strengthening the relationships, capabilities, and shared understanding needed to protect lives and support communities before, during, and after crises.”

Kiona Black, Exercise Director and Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) Response Coordination Manager added that “working with our emergency responder partners from around the State brings everyone together for a common goal. When large scale emergency events occur, interoperability is key. Having those pre-established relationships and shared training experiences helps us shape a more resilient Maryland.”

“This was more than a training exercise, it was an opportunity to simulate real-world conditions, testing how effectively we communicate, make decisions, and deploy resources during complex incidents,” said Baltimore County Police Chief Robert McCullough. “Events like the Key Bridge collapse and Potomac River mid-air collision have shown no single agency can manage these situations alone.”

During the 12-hour operational period, air, land, marine, and dive resources worked together to accomplish their objectives. Such seamless interoperability is essential during real-world events, helping to build more resilient communities ahead of actual emergencies.

“This type of collaboration between local, state, and regional partners is critical to assess our preparedness level and response capabilities,” said Baltimore County Fire Chief Joseph Dixon, Sr. “The lessons learned today will be incorporated into our planning and contribute to better outcomes whenever and wherever disaster strikes.”

“This exercise demonstrates the necessity of leveraging the capabilities and resources across Maryland, from our State agencies, local jurisdictions, as well as non-governmental organizations, to provide a comprehensive response to catastrophic events,” said Brian Bauer, Director (Acting),  Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) Consequence Management Directorate. “We don’t get to pick where emergencies happen, so training in different locations and working with teams that we may not always get a chance to interact with on a regular basis helps to make partnerships stronger. I thank everyone who attended the exercise, especially those who traveled those longer distances to get here.”

Training and exercises like SAREX are essential to maintaining a coordinated and effective emergency response system. By working together, Maryland’s responders are better equipped to manage complex incidents and support communities across the State.

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CONTACT:
Jim Abels, [email protected], 667-446-0346
Emily Ritter, [email protected], 667-446-0345
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

Public Advisory

WHAT: Regional Search & Rescue Exercise (SAREX). This is only an exercise.

• This full scale training exercise will span a 20 square mile area and include coordinated operations by responders and observers in aircraft, on the ground, and on the water—including divers operating underwater.
• Props and simulated structures will be placed throughout the area in the days leading up to the exercise. These may appear realistic but they will be clearly marked. Please do not tamper with or disturb these items for your safety and the safety of responders.
• Residents and visitors should expect an increased presence of emergency personnel, Maryland National Guard aircraft, emergency vehicles, law enforcement, and rescue boats throughout the exercise area.
• Gunpowder Falls State Park and Loch Raven Dam recreational areas will remain open during this training event. Members of the public may observe activity from a safe distance but should not interfere with operations

WHERE: Loch Raven Dam Reservoir, Big Gunpowder Falls, Gunpowder River, Gunpowder Falls State Park, and Hart Miller Island.

WHEN: 7:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., Thursday, April 23, 2026.

THE PUBLIC IS ADVISED TO:

• Recognize that this is only an exercise. Some scenarios, props, and responder actions may appear realistic.
• Do not fly drones in or near the exercise area. Unauthorized drone activity poses a safety risk and may disrupt operations.
• Use caution in recreational areas, especially near the Hammerman Beach area and surrounding waterways, where active training will occur.
• Follow all directions from exercise personnel, who will be clearly identified by safety or exercise vests.
• Do not approach or interfere with responders, equipment, or active training scenarios.

WHO: Emergency responders from around the state will be gathering at Gunpowder Falls State Park for an immersive training experience that will test their skills, training and endurance as they work together to respond to complex incidents in a simulated real-world training environment.

To learn more about this event, please visit this link to view a short overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FKqw6yaabo

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CONTACT:
Jim Abels, [email protected], 667-446-0346
Emily Ritter, [email protected], 667-446-0345
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

Be #MdReady: Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week Focuses on Spring Hazards

Maryland Department of Emergency Management and National Weather Service Encourage Preparedness and Tornado Drill Preparation

HANOVER, MD (April 6, 2025) — April 6-12, will be recognized as Severe Storms Awareness Week (SSAW), a statewide initiative to help residents prepare for the wide range of dangerous weather hazards that impact Maryland each spring and beyond. This year’s theme is “Be MdReady: Resilience Starts With You!” SSAW will once again include a Tornado Drill: The Great Maryland Twister Test. Each day of the week will highlight a different severe weather threat common to the region, along with safety guidance and reminders based on real events that have affected Maryland communities. 

“Maryland residents, schools, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to review their emergency plans this week and participate in the tornado drill at 10 a.m. on Wednesday. “Now is the time for all Marylanders and visitors to take action,” said Maryland Secretary of Emergency Management, Russ Strickland. “Participate in The Great Maryland Twister Test, review your emergency plans, and set up multiple ways to receive alerts through the MdReady WebApp and local text notifications. Being prepared today can save lives, minimize disruption, and help our communities stay safe and recover faster when severe weather strikes.”

This year’s Severe Storms Awareness Week also marks the rollout of Maryland’s Resilient Maryland Strategy, a long-term roadmap for building resilience statewide. The Resilient Maryland Strategy serves as the State’s first comprehensive, whole-of-government roadmap to strengthen disaster and climate resilience, aligning and advancing Maryland’s many existing plans under a single, unified vision. The strategy outlines 20 goals and 50 recommendations—31 of which can begin immediately using existing resources—across five key sectors: environment and natural systems, housing, community and local government capacity, food systems, and critical infrastructure. 

It takes an all-hazards approach, addressing risks such as flooding, severe storms, and extreme heat, while accounting for the increasing impacts of climate change. “As a former local emergency manager, I know firsthand the weight of trying to protect a community while navigating a fragmented landscape of resources and rising risks,” said Maryland Chief Resilience Officer, Mike Hinson. “The strategy helps Maryland adopt a proactive, unified defense against disasters. It’s about ensuring that every jurisdiction—no matter how small—has the technical support and strategic backing to thrive in the face of disasters and climate change.”

“This strategy is a clear commitment to every Marylander that their government is prepared to adapt, withstand, and swiftly recover from any disruption to daily life,” said Maryland Chief Sustainability Officer, Meghan Conklin. “By moving beyond traditional silos and focusing on place-based strategies, we are ensuring that Maryland isn’t just surviving emergencies—such as those posed by climate change—but thriving in spite of them. We are building a state where our strategies are as inclusive as they are robust, with a relentless focus on safeguarding our most vulnerable communities.”

The strategy builds on and complements existing efforts—including the Next Generation Adaptation Plan, State Hazard Mitigation Plan, and Climate Implementation Plans—while going further to provide a streamlined, action-oriented framework. Ultimately, it ensures a more coordinated, proactive approach to resilience, helping protect Marylanders and communities from current and future hazards.

That coordinated approach to resilience comes to life during Severe Storms Awareness Week, with each day focused on a specific hazard:

• Monday, April 6: Flooding
• Tuesday, April 7: Damaging Winds
• Wednesday, April 8: Tornadoes & The Great Maryland Twister Test Tornado Drill
• Thursday, April 9: Hail
• Friday, April 10: Lightning

MDEM will be coordinating with the NWS Baltimore/Washington Weather Forecast Office, which covers most Maryland jurisdictions; our 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. James E. Lee, Meteorologist in Charge of the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington Forecast Office, noted that “a significant part of Maryland’s weather-related damage comes from severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. The National Weather Service typically identifies these weather hazards minutes in advance, and immediately issues weather warnings for Marylanders to take action. It is vital that Marylanders receive our warnings quickly, and rapidly respond to get out of harm’s way. Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week reminds people to develop their family weather safety plan, and practice this week in order to be ready.”

While residents and organizations practice preparedness on the ground, MDEM staff and partners reinforce training through exercises that strengthen coordination and response capabilities. Recent efforts have focused on State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) activation, information sharing, and resource coordination, using scenarios based on flooding, winter storms, and nuclear power plant incidents to reflect the range of hazards facing Maryland. Such a training occurred this past Wednesday at MDEM headquarters, where MDEM staff led a Maryland Qualification System credentialing exercise using a tornado scenario, bringing together 15 participants, one observer, and 11 evaluators from organizations across the State. Participants were assigned to an Incident Management Team and evaluated on their ability to perform key roles and responsibilities during a simulated multi-operational period incident within an eight-hour operational period.

MDEM reminds Marylanders that our State faces a complex array of hazards—from the immediate risks of flash flooding and severe storms to the growing threats of extreme heat and cyber disruptions. Addressing these challenges requires more than just state-level planning; it requires a unified front.

Severe Storms Awareness Week reminds us that collaboration between emergency management professionals and every Maryland resident is what makes our State truly resilient. By preparing together, we ensure that everyone is #MdReady. Resilience Starts With You!

For more information, visit our Severe Storms Awareness Week page : 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). 

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CONTACT:
Jim Abels, james.abels@maryland.gov, 667-446-0346
Emily Ritter, [email protected], 667-446-0345
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

Maryland 9-1-1 Board Recognizes Susan Greentree with the 2026 Steve Souder Lifetime Achievement Award

HANOVER, MD (March 26, 2026) — The Maryland 9-1-1 Board today recognized long-time public safety stalwart, Susan Greentree, with the Steve Souder Lifetime Achievement Award. The award is presented annually to an individual who has “displayed significant dedication and leadership in advancing the 911 system” in the State of Maryland, as well as to those who have assisted with the deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) systems.

“The Steve Souder Award is named after a true pioneer in our field, and it requires a recipient who leads with both vision and grit,” said Russ Strickland, Maryland Secretary of Emergency Management. “This award not only recognizes Sue’s long career as a 9-1-1 specialist and supervisor on the front lines, but also her extraordinary dedication to enhancing the entire State’s 9-1-1 system through policy and advocacy work at the State and national level. Sue’s commitment to improving 9-1-1 ensures our systems will save lives for decades to come.”

Mrs. Greentree has been involved with the 9-1-1 system for more than 35 years. During her tenure as a police communications administrator and fire communications official on the front lines of emergency calls in Anne Arundel County, she spearheaded significant advancements and improvements in the field. 

In addition to her service at the local level, Mrs. Greentree also dedicated much of her time to shaping state 9-1-1 policies. She represented the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials on the Maryland 9-1-1 Board for more than 20 years, providing critical 9-1-1 Trust Fund stewardship and a voice for 9-1-1 specialists at the State level. Mrs. Greentree was also appointed as a member of The Commission to Advance Next Generation 9-1-1 as a representative of the Maryland 9-1-1 Board, and she routinely provided testimony and letters of support for legislation that advances the career and the community to which  she has devoted her life. She is also a past president of the Maryland Chapter of the National Emergency Numbers Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of 9-1-1 operations, technology, education, and policy issues.

Maryland State Senator Cheryl C. Kagan noted, “How fitting that the fabulous Sue Greentree, whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with in 9-1-1 leadership and who has spent more than 35 years serving 9-1-1, was honored with the Souder Lifetime Achievement Award (the first presented to someone not named Steve Souder!) in recognition of her dedication to and impact on our emergency response system.”

The Maryland 9-1-1 Board was the first of its kind in the country, bringing together diverse stakeholders and subject matter experts to coordinate the enhancement of county 9-1-1 systems across the State. The Maryland 9-1-1 Board ensures an effective, innovative, and efficient 9-1-1 system for all of Maryland by leading, educating, and collaborating with stakeholders, partners, counties, and communities. The Steve Souder Lifetime Achievement Award is named for current Maryland 9-1-1 Board member Steve Souder whose tireless advocacy and leadership has shaped Maryland – and the nation’s – 9-1-1 system for more than 50 years. 

For more information about MDEM and the Maryland 9-1-1 Board, residents can visit MDEM’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, and follow MDEM’s social media feeds X (Twitter) (@MDMEMA), Facebook (facebook.com/MDMEMA), Instagram (instagram.com/mdmema), Linkedin (linkedin.com/company/maryland-department-of-emergency-management), Threads (threads.net/@mdmema) and Bluesky (@mdmema.bsky.social).

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CONTACT:
Jim Abels, james.abels@maryland.gov, 667-446-0346
Emily Ritter, [email protected], 667-446-0345
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

Governor Moore Declares State of Preparedness Ahead of Severe Storms on Monday, March 16

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today declared a State of Preparedness​ ahead of significant risk for widespread, severe storms producing damaging winds, hail, and a heightened tornado threat across all of Maryland for Monday, March 16. These storms have the potential to cause damages to structures, downed trees and powerlines, and create debris. Marylanders are urged to have a plan to shelter if a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning is issued for the area, secure or bring in loose objects around their homes, reschedule outdoor activities, and to follow local forecasts for the most up-to-date information for your area.

“In declaring a State of Preparedness for Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts across state government in advance of the incoming severe storms,” said Gov. Moore. “The safety of Maryland families comes first. I am urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans, including postponing travel, as conditions change. Know the safest room at home or at work, and plan to be indoors before the storm arrives.”

A State of Preparedness enhances the State’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats before escalating response, providing an easier path for information sharing and coordination. Multiple State agencies and departments including emergency management, transportation, law enforcement, and public health are coordinating to prepare for the storm. The Department of Emergency Management will be activating the State Emergency Operations Center to respond to the storm and is closely monitoring as it approaches the state.

“We are working with our state and local partners to prepare for potential impacts across Maryland,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “We are planning for the possibility of hazardous conditions which could include debris, downed powerlines, and travel disruptions. Marylanders should make their preparations now by reviewing family emergency plans including where to shelter during a tornado warning, charging personal devices in case of power outages, and signing up for local emergency alerts to stay informed. If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home, and always follow guidance from local officials.”

Marylanders should prepare for high winds and severe storm conditions as this dangerous storm moves through the state on Monday, beginning mid-morning in Western Maryland and moving east across the state for much of the day and into the evening. At a minimum, most residents can expect delays and hazardous driving conditions during and after the storm, with potential damage to life and property while the storm is at its peak. Winds may create dangerous debris and cause power outages. According to the National Weather Service, the weather system is expected to significantly impact the region beginning Monday mid-morning to evening, bringing multiple threats that require heightened awareness and preparedness from Marylanders and those visiting our State.

Marylanders can expect the following during this weather event:

• A powerful cold front will bring a line of thunderstorms across the area as early as Monday morning into the evening.
• The main threats are severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, hail, and tornados.
• There is potential for 70-80 mph wind gusts.
• Potential impacts include significant travel delays, power outages, and debris.

Detailed forecasts for local areas can be found on the National Weather Service website.

Preparedness Recommendations:

• Plan ahead to minimize impact on you and your family.
• If you receive a Tornado Warning, immediately seek shelter.
• Stay informed by regularly checking weather updates from official sources and be sure to have a way to access local forecasts and warnings.
• Have an emergency kit ready and a family emergency plan in place, including where to shelter if a tornado warning is issued for your area.
• Heed all warnings and stay indoors during severe weather, including pets.
• Keep devices charged in case of power outages.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found at mdem.maryland.gov.
• Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from the home and away from windows, doors, and vents.

For the latest information, please visit weather.gov/lwx. 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 may visit the Maryland Department of Emergency Management’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, follow the department’s X (Twitter) feed at @MDMEMA, or follow the department’s Facebook page at www.facebook​.com/MDMEMA.

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Governor Moore Declares State of Emergency, Liberal Leave in Effect for Maryland State Government Ahead of Winter Storm

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore this afternoon declared a State of Emergency as the threat of a powerful winter storm will impact Maryland beginning this evening through Monday, February 23. Travel tonight and overnight will be extremely hazardous, especially in areas under a blizzard warning. Marylanders are urged to avoid travel, to follow local forecasts, to stay prepared for winter storm hazards, and to prepare for power outages.

“The safety of Marylanders comes first and this storm has the potential to produce life-threatening conditions across large parts of the state,” said Gov. Moore. “Stay off the roads, check on your neighbors, and listen to local authorities. Please be vigilant and take this storm seriously to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

A winter storm warning is in effect for much of Maryland from now into Monday as a coastal nor’easter moves up the East Coast. Rain will transition to snow as temperatures drop and the storm strengthens this evening. Blizzard warnings are in effect for parts of the Eastern Shore, where heavy snow combined with strong winds will create whiteout conditions and very low visibility, making travel dangerous to impossible at times.

Hazardous travel conditions are expected statewide, with the worst conditions Sunday night into Monday morning. Roads may become slick and dangerous as the storm intensifies. Temperatures are expected to fall as the storm system progresses, which could lead to icy surfaces. Heavy snow and wind-driven blowing snow are expected to create very poor visibility.

Detailed snow and ice totals will be updated regularly at weather.gov/lwx/winter.

State Actions

• The Maryland Department of Emergency Management has activated the State Emergency Operations Center as well as the Maryland Joint Information Center. The department will coordinate with local governments, State agencies, and nongovernmental and federal partners to quickly and effectively respond to the needs of communities throughout the storm. State and county emergency operations centers have upgraded their activation levels across Maryland.

• The Maryland Department of Transportation has activated the State Highway Administration Emergency Operations Center. Crews are clearing roadways and Marylanders are encouraged to remove snow and ice from sidewalks to ensure a clear path for pedestrians and other non-motorists who must travel. Visit roads.maryland.gov to access live traffic cameras and real-time information about traffic incidents.

• The Maryland Transit Administration will adjust service as the storm progresses. Local bus, light rail and Metro subway will continue to operate on regular Sunday schedules this evening. MARC will run full service on the Penn Line this evening; Camden and Brunswick lines do not operate on the weekend. Mobility/paratransit will handle calls as road conditions dictate, with medical procedure calls taking priority. BWI Marshall Airport is encouraging travelers to check with their airlines ​before heading to the airport. As of this morning, airlines have cancelled 176 flights.

• The Maryland State Police will increase staffing across the State, with 12 additional troopers assisting with patrol for the night shift. More than 70 extra troopers will assist tomorrow for the day shift.

• The Public Service Commission reports that electric utilities have implemented storm preparedness and restoration readiness measures, including activation of storm response protocols, pre-staging of restoration crews and equipment, enhanced system monitoring, and coordination with State and local emergency management agencies. Utilities have adjusted staffing levels to ensure adequate restoration capability and remain prepared to initiate restoration operations as conditions allow.

• The Maryland Department of Disabilities will monitor their non-emergency disability hotline beginning this evening at 7 p.m. The hotline provides referrals, support, and case management for people with disabilities and is not intended for emergencies that require 911 services. The hotline is available at 410-340-9263.

Safety Comes First

• Be prepared, stay informed, and have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts.
• Do not travel during the storm. Conditions will be hazardous and at times driving will be impossible. Life threatening blizzard conditions are possible even in areas that are not under a blizzard warning.
• If you must travel, make sure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle and be sure to let someone know your route and destination before you go.
• Follow local forecasts and heed warnings from local officials.
• Prepare now for power outages.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
• Watch for symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite—it can set in quickly, especially if skin is exposed or if you have been outside in the cold for an extended period of time.
• If able, check on older neighbors or relatives who may live alone.

Generator Safety

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.
• Learn more about safe generator use from the American Red Cross.

For more information on preparedness, visit mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM on X at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at facebook.com/MDMEMA.

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Governor Moore Declares State of Preparedness Ahead of Winter Weather System

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today declared a State of Preparedness ahead of a potentially hazardous winter weather system that is expected to bring heavy snow across Maryland. The storm will likely affect roads and transportation centers and could cause significant snow accumulation and hazardous travel conditions in some parts of the state. Marylanders are cautioned to avoid travel if possible, to follow local forecasts, and to stay prepared for winter storm hazards. 

“In declaring a State of Preparedness for Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts across state government in advance of the incoming winter storm,” said Gov. Moore. “The safety of Maryland families comes first. I am urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans, including postponing travel, as conditions change.”

A State of Preparedness enhances the State’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats before escalating response, providing an easier path for information sharing and coordination. Multiple State agencies and departments including emergency management, transportation, law enforcement, and public health are coordinating to prepare for the storm.

Marylanders should prepare for travel disruptions as this storm moves through the region. At a minimum, most residents can expect delays and hazardous driving conditions, and impacts could become significantly worse depending on the storm’s exact track and snowfall rates. According to the National Weather Service, the weather system is expected to significantly impact the region beginning Sunday afternoon to evening, bringing multiple threats that require heightened awareness and preparedness from Marylanders and those visiting our State. 

Marylanders can expect the following during this weather event:

Snow Threat:

• Beginning Sunday afternoon-evening, with peak impacts Sunday night into Monday morning.
• Accumulating snow will impact the state on Sunday evening into Monday morning. 
• A hard freeze is expected Monday night into Tuesday morning.
• Heavy wet snow combined with strong winds may result in isolated or scattered power outages on Monday.
• Potential impacts include significant travel delays, closures, and threats to life and property. 
• Plan ahead to minimize impact on you and your family.

“MDEM is actively monitoring this storm and working closely with our state and local partners to prepare for potential impacts across Maryland,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “We are planning for the possibility of heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions. Marylanders should stay informed, make their preparations now, and be ready to adjust plans as conditions change. If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home, and always follow guidance from local officials.”

Detailed snow and ice totals will be updated regularly on the National Weather Service website.

Preparedness Recommendations:

• Stay informed by regularly checking weather updates from official sources and be sure to have a way to access local forecasts and warnings.
• Have an emergency kit ready and a family emergency plan in place.
• Heed all warnings and stay indoors during severe weather.
• Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
• Keep devices charged in case of power outages.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found at mdem.maryland.gov.
• Follow Maryland Department of Emergency Management and regional National Weather Service social media accounts for localized forecasts.
• Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from the home and away from windows, doors, and vents.

For the latest information, please visit weather.gov/lwx. 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 may visit the Maryland Department of Emergency Management’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, follow the department’s X (Twitter) feed at @MDMEMA, or follow the department’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA. 

Marylanders may also monitor power outages through the MdReady installable app and website: MdReady.maryland.gov

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Maryland Department of the Environment Issues Update on Potomac Interceptor Support and Response

Maryland Supporting Regional Response to Potomac Interceptor Break Since January to Restore Service and Keep Our Waterways Protected

Baltimore, MD (February 20, 2026) — On January 19, a section of the Potomac Interceptor—a large sewer pipe that is owned and maintained by D.C. Water—experienced a breach along the Clara Barton Parkway in Montgomery County, Maryland. Since the breach, the State of Maryland has been engaged in a supportive capacity, working across multiple State agencies and with local and federal partners, to restore service to the interceptor and ensure the health and safety of Marylanders. 

“The Potomac Interceptor has been under federal jurisdiction since the 1960s and is still today overseen by the EPA. The incident occurred on National Park Service property and the District of Columbia and the federal government maintain primary responsibility for repair and cleanup operations,” said Governor Wes Moore. “Maryland agencies have been and will remain in close coordination with our partners in the District of Columbia and Virginia. We will continue to support our neighbors by monitoring the environmental impacts of the break.”

The failed section of sewer pipe is 72 inches in diameter. D.C. Water estimates that approximately 240 to 300 million gallons of wastewater spilled into the Potomac as a result of the break. Wastewater has since stopped flowing into the Potomac, with no wastewater from the break entering the Potomac since Super Bowl Sunday. Through D.C. Water, crews accessed the damaged section, began repairs, and are working to provide long-term solutions that reduce the risk of future spills. 

Maryland has been engaged since the beginning of the incident in mid-January and will remain engaged in a supportive and interagency response to the incident.

Maryland Department of the Environment
The Maryland Department of Environment is leading the state’s response and is in close coordination with D.C. Water and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, who are responsible for the maintenance and monitoring of the Potomac Interceptor and have been engaged in emergency repairs and bypass operations since mid-January. 

The department is coordinating among state, local, and federal partners and facilitating regular site visits to oversee containment activity in the Potomac and continues to assess the extent of the environmental damage caused by the incident. A water monitoring plan—coordinated between D.C. Water, D.C. Department of Energy and Environment, and the Maryland Department of the Environment—has been implemented. Though fluctuations in water quality may be influenced by a number of factors in addition to the spill, daily water sampling generally shows decreased bacteria levels over time and distance from the spill site. 

MDE’s Water and Science Administration is responsible for regulating shellfish harvesting waters. This effort has three parts: 1) identifying and eliminating pollution sources, 2) collecting water samples for bacteriological examination; and 3) examining shell stock samples for bacteriological contamination and chemical toxicants. Out of an abundance of caution,  the department closed a small portion of the Potomac River. The closed portion of the river does not impact shellfish harvest in other areas—including other areas of the Potomac that are approved or conditionally approved for shellfish harvest.

Oysters currently being sold on the market that come from the Chesapeake Bay meet National Shellfish Sanitation Program standards and are not coming from the closure area on the Potomac River. Each bushel of Maryland-harvested oysters currently being sold includes a tag indicating where they were harvested from and are tracked to ensure food safety standards are met.

For up-to-date information about Maryland’s response in support—including environmental impacts, response actions, and water testing results from D.C. Water—visit the Maryland Department of the Environment’s Potomac Interceptor update page. The Maryland Department of the Environment is committed to a sustained, long-term engagement to ensure public health is protected and the spill’s environmental impacts are fully remediated.

Maryland Department of Health
The Maryland Department of Health is monitoring for any potential impacts to human health, working in coordination with Montgomery, Prince George’s, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties. Montgomery, Prince George’s and Charles counties have issued advisories, including: 

• Avoiding contact with the water or shore line of the impacted area;
• Avoiding consumption of any food or water from the impacted area; 
• Keeping pets away from the impacted area; 
• Avoiding flushing wipes or grease down any pipes; and 
• Washing hands and skin should they come into contact with the impacted area. 

If individuals come into contact with the impacted area and experience vomiting, diarrhea, a rash, or skin irritation after exposure, they are advised to contact their health care provider immediately. 

Additional public health guidance, including updated advisories, may be issued as more information becomes available.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is beginning to evaluate potential impacts to fish, shellfish, and other wildlife now that ice has largely cleared from the Potomac River and downstream waterways. 

The department is also coordinating with the Maryland Department of Health and the Maryland Department of Environment to distribute information to watermen about ongoing shellfish harvesting area closures,which are issued by the Maryland Department of Environment. The three agencies are coordinating closely to ensure that Maryland’s oyster-growing waters meet health and safety standards for shellfish harvesting under the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. The program ensures federal, state, and local agencies test shellfish growing waters regularly and oversee harvesting and processing to ensure oysters are safe to eat. 

Maryland Department of Agriculture

The Maryland Department of Agriculture remains in close communication with agricultural producers and seafood stakeholders to ensure timely updates regarding water quality advisories and shellfish harvest restrictions. While the department does not oversee wastewater infrastructure or environmental remediation, the department works alongside partner agencies to help protect Maryland’s agricultural economy, including aquaculture and oyster operations, should impacts arise.

Oysters harvested from the Chesapeake Bay and other tributaries have not been affected by the spill. As a protection to consumers, all shellfish are tagged by harvesters and dealers as required under the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. Tags include the date and location of harvest and, in Maryland, can only come from approved or conditionally approved waters.

Maryland Department of Emergency Management

The department stood up the Potomac Interceptor Coordination Task Force and is coordinating operational activities between the Maryland Department of the Environment, Department of Health, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Agriculture.  

The department’s Maryland Business Emergency Operations Center has also been monitoring the impact on Maryland businesses. Local businesses that may have been impacted by the spill are encouraged to complete the department’s Business Damage Assessment Survey. 

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CONTACT:
Jim Abels, [email protected], 667-446-0346
Emily Ritter, [email protected], 667-446-0345
24/7 line: 877-636-2872