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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

Heavy Rain in the Forecast for Maryland

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 30, 2015) — The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting heavy rain throughout the end of this week for the State of Maryland. Rainfall is likely to begin on Thursday and continue at least through the weekend, with the potential of 5 to 10 inches of total precipitation throughout much of the State. Some areas will receive higher amounts which could produce flooding of rivers, streams, ponds, and low-lying areas. The Hogan administration has asked State agencies, including the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), to make preparations for the incoming storms. Marylanders have a role in storm readiness, too.

“The time to prepare is right now,” said Russ Strickland, Executive Director of MEMA. “A few steps before heavy rain begins can help reduce effects of the storm on you, your family, and your home.”

MEMA is recommending that residents take the following actions:

  • Clean storm drains and gutters on your house to prevent overflow and water buildup.
  • Don’t wait. Communicate. Know how to get in contact with your friends and family during any emergency.
  • Fuel up your automobile before any storm.
  • If you have a basement in your house, shelve household items and make sure any electronic equipment is not lying directly on the floor.
  • Check to see if you live or work in a flood prone area: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/floodProneZones.aspx
  • Listen to instructions from local officials and know the current forecast by following your local emergency management office, forecasters, and news stations.

In addition to the rainfall this week, MEMA is also monitoring Hurricane Joaquin, which is currently located southeast of Florida. The NWS has noted that the exact path of this system will not be clear until later this week; however, any impact could bring additional rain and wind. Follow MEMA’s Twitter feed @MDMEMA and Facebook page for more information.

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

***An audio version of this press release is here: https://soundcloud.com/mdmema/pr-9-30-15-heavy-rain-in-the