Skip to Content Accessibility Information

Maryland Department of Emergency Management

March 16 – 20 is Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week

Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week begins on Monday, March 16, and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is teaming up with the National Weather Service and local emergency managers to promote citizen awareness and preparedness. During spring, Maryland is at risk for flooding, damaging winds, tornadoes, hail, and lightning. All of these hazards typically occur in our State every year; however, residents can “be weather prepared” by ensuring that they know how to get a warning, have a plan, and practice safety tips.

“Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week is an important reminder about the negative effect that hazardous weather can have on Marylanders and their homes,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Oftentimes, the safest action during a strong storm is common sense.”

“Don’t attempt to drive across flooded roadways during or after a storm. Get and stay indoors if you hear thunder or see lightning,” added Clay Stamp, Executive Director of MEMA, the Governor’s emergency management agency. “And if you need to leave the house due to damage or an emergency, make sure to bring your emergency kit and a charged cell phone with you.”

The National Weather Service (NWS) emphasizes that the mid-Atlantic region is at risk for flooding, damaging winds, tornadoes, hail, and lightning storms every year. “Maryland experiences severe storms regularly during the spring,” said NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist Christopher Strong. “Our area is particularly at risk for flooding, and we also see hailstorms and even tornadoes. In fact, Maryland has had over 100 tornadoes in the past ten years.”

The NWS and MEMA work closely together and with local government agencies to identify and monitor severe weather systems, develop preparedness plans and safety information, and coordinate the response to these storms.

Residents can also take actions to remain safe by practicing the following tips:

  • During flooding, never enter an area where water is flowing over a road and you cannot see the pavement. Turn around, don’t drown!
  • If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued or you are experiencing strong winds, get to a sturdy shelter and stay indoors away from windows.
  • Tornadoes can form rapidly in the right conditions. If there is a tornado warning or you see a tornado, quickly get inside and go to the lowest floor possible.
  • If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck from a fringe lightning strike. Over 98% of lightning casualties are from people outdoors—get indoors or inside your vehicle if possible.

Additional information can be found on the NWS “Weather Ready” website at weather.gov/baltimore/weatherready and the MEMA website at mema.maryland.gov.

Residents can also download the free MARYLAND Prepares mobile app at mema.maryland.gov/Pages/mdprepares.aspx.