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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

MEMA URGES MARYLAND RESIDENTS TO PREPARE FOR POTENTIAL SEVERE WEATHER WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY

REISTERSTOWN, MD (June 12, 2013) – With forecasters predicting a high risk for severe weather over the next two days, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency is urging residents to be prepared for strong storms that might affect the area. Although much of Maryland has a chance of thundershowers today, the National Weather Service says the greatest risk for severe weather in the state will be on Thursday.

Residents are reminded to:

  • Make sure cell phones and other portable devices are fully charged and consider purchasing and charging spare batteries.
  • Have a disaster supply kit with bottled water, non-perishable food (with a hand-operated can opener), a first aid kit, portable   radio and flashlight with extra batteries, toiletries, special items needed for pets or infants, prescription medicine, a change of clothes and bedding. The kit will be helpful if you have to evacuate quickly or if you are without power.
  • Keep some cash available in case ATM machines are not available.
  • Have copies of important documents such as home and property insurance policies, driver’s licenses, health insurance cards, etc.
  • Know where you would meet other members of your family if your home is not safe.
  • Remember that in the immediate aftermath of a serious event, wireless communications systems may be overloaded. Text family members to let them know you are safe so voice calls for emergency agencies can go through.

Follow local weather forecasts in your area for the next two days to learn if there are any warnings in your specific area and take appropriate actions.

The following websites have preparedness information for severe storms and other emergencies:

Maryland Emergency Management Agency: www.mema.maryland.gov. MEMA also is on Twitter @MDMEMA and you may follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.

Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.ready.gov

American Red Cross: www.redcross.org

Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov