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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

MAY 24-30 is Maryland Hurricane Preparedness Week

THE SUMMER SEASON BRINGS POTENTIAL HURRICANE DANGERS TO MARYLAND

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (May 24, 2015) — Maryland Hurricane Preparedness Week begins on Sunday, May 24, and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is teaming up with the National Weather Service (NWS) and local emergency managers to promote citizen awareness and preparedness. The Atlantic Hurricane season lasts from June to November. Most hurricane-like weather is seen mid-August and late October.  These storms can cause strong winds, heavy rain, inland flooding, and other severe weather. Residents in Maryland can “be weather ready” by ensuring that they know how to get a warning, have a plan, and practice safety tips.

“Maryland Hurricane Preparedness Week is an important reminder that dangerous weather does occur in Maryland and when it affects our residents it affects all of us,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Oftentimes, the safest action during a hurricane is the simplest action – common sense.”

“While the last two hurricane seasons have been relatively quiet, we all remember the devastation from Hurricane Sandy in 2012, especially in the New York City area and on Maryland’s lower eastern shore,” said MEMA Executive Director Clay Stamp. “It’s important for us to always be prepared because even in a quiet hurricane season, just one hurricane making landfall in our area can be devastating.”

The NWS highlights that in Maryland it is possible to see hurricanes or hurricane-like activity during the summer. “Damage to coastlines and destruction several hundred miles inland can be seen with these tropical storms,” said NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist Chris Strong. “Hurricanes can produce 150+ miles per hour winds, devastating high tides, flooding from torrential rain, and even tornadoes.”

The NWS and MEMA work closely together and with local government agencies to identify and monitor hurricane activity, 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:

  • Stay tuned to radio and TV stations for official weather information.
  • Follow instructions and advice given by emergency officials.
  • Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
  • Close all interior doors – secure and brace external doors.
  • Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
  • Avoid using the phone except in the case of emergencies.
  • Avoid elevators
  • If you live in a mobile home, plan to leave. Mobile homes are unsafe in high winds.
  • Do not attempt to evacuate during the height of a hurricane. You are safer in your home than out on the road
  • Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as for cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill a bathtub or other large container with the water. This is important for those whose water runs off of an electrical system.

Additional information can be on MEMA’s website at mema.maryland.gov. Residents can also download the free MARYLAND Prepares mobile app at mema.maryland.gov/Pages/mdprepares.aspx.

NOTE: MEMA executives are available for live or taped interviews to discuss hurricane preparedness and safety.

CONTACT:
Chas Eby
chas.eby@maryland.gov
410-274-6690

Ed McDonough
ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov
410-446-3333

Emily Allen
emily.allen@maryland.gov
410-504-4437