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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

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Maryland Resources Available for Preventing and Preparing for Active Assailant Events 

May 25th, 2022

School safety logo - AAIWG

Active Assailant Interdisciplinary Work Group

 

ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 25, 2022) – On behalf of the Maryland Center for School Safety and Active Assailant Interdisciplinary Work Group for the State of Maryland, we offer our heartfelt condolences to the families and communities directly affected by the horrific events in Uvalde, Texas and Buffalo, New York, as well as those across the country who are shaken by these events in their own local communities. 

In Maryland, we have been committed to working on the prevention of mass violence and preparedness and response to such events in a collaborative fashion with our State, federal and local partners with increased attention and diligence with a series of actions directed by Governor Hogan in 2018.  

This includes ensuring there are ample resources available to the public. The Maryland Active Assailant Interdisciplinary Work Group keeps a robust resource library related to the prevention of, preparedness for, and response to active assailant incidents.  The materials are divided into general prevention and early intervention resources, as well as sector or audience-specific materials relevant to specific industries, communities, or events. To find resources and learn more, visit aaiwg.maryland.gov.

The State offers multiple resources for assistance.  For school safety concerns, we offer the Safe Schools Maryland (SSMD) anonymous reporting system. SSMD exists to ensure that individuals have a mechanism to report school and student safety concerns anonymously and securely. Anonymous reports can be submitted by calling (1-833-MD-B-SAFE / 1-833-632-7233), completing an online form, or downloading the free Safe Schools Maryland app from the App Store or Google Play.​ More information on Safe Schools Maryland can be found at safeschoolsmd.org.   For non-emergency suspicious activity reports, call the Maryland Coordination and ;Analysis Center (MCAC) at 1-800-492-TIPS(8477).  And, if you or someone you know needs assistance with mental or behavioral health care, please check the Behavioral Health Administration’s Help Page, or contact Maryland’s Helpline at 2-1-1 press 1.

The passage of the Safe to Learn Act of 2018 expanded resources and programming of the Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS).   MCSS provides schools and school systems throughout the State with training and support on school safety prevention and intervention, emergency preparedness, and creating and maintaining healthy school communities.  MCSS maintains a directory of school safety resources on its website for students, teachers, and families, and will also send staff to conduct training sessions on topics of interest.  To learn more, please visit schoolsafety.maryland.gov.

By Executive Order issued on February 28, 2018, Governor Hogan authorized the Maryland Active Assailant Interdisciplinary Work Group (AAIWG), co-chaired by the Maryland State Police (MSP) and Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS), with oversight from the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM).  The work group is composed of several local, state and federal agencies, including the Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS), to ensure all procedures are cohesive across jurisdictional boundaries.

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CONTACT: Active Assailant Interdisciplinary Work Group, 410-281-2361 or [email protected].

 

410.281.2361 | [email protected]

 

Town of Crisfield to Receive Technical Assistance from The Federal Emergency Management Agency After State of Maryland’s Successful Application

May 24th, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (May 24, 2022) — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide Direct Technical Assistance (DTA) to the Town of Crisfield to prepare a competitive grant application for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program. Crisfield is only one of 20 sub-applicants in the U.S. to be selected as a recipient.

“Mitigation is crucial to the future of communities near the Chesapeake Bay as they face ever-increasing threats from flooding,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) Secretary Russ Strickland. “Investing in mitigation projects saves money by reducing damages from future events. I like to say that in emergency management, mitigation is the center of the universe.”

In fiscal year 2021, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management submitted an application for nearly $27.6 million in BRIC projects aimed at reducing disaster risk statewide. This year, FEMA’S Direct Technical Assistance will help Crisfield develop competitive applications that are eligible for potential funding of mitigation projects as well as funding to administer those projects. Like many smaller communities, Crisfield’s lack of resources and personnel make it difficult to navigate the process required to receive funding. This Somerset County community is located where the Little Annemessex River meets the Chesapeake Bay and has been the scene of many flooding events caused by high tides, storm surge, and heavy rainfall.

BRIC grants provide funding for projects that mitigate against these and other hazards, and DTA makes it possible for communities like Crisfield to have a chance at obtaining badly needed funding for hazard mitigation projects. This program will connect the City with experienced mentors who can discuss best practices and lessons learned in other similar communities to help create successful projects to encourage community-wide resilience.

While Crisfield has seen an increase in nuisance flooding from tides and minor storms in recent years, it was the hardest hit community in Maryland during Superstorm Sandy in 2012, with severe damage to buildings and public infrastructure near its harbor. In addition to the dangers inherent to the topography, the City also has documented drainage issues due to an aging stormwater system.

To learn more about BRIC, visit fema.gov/ne/node/626155. To learn more about FEMA’s Direct Technical Assistance visit fema.gov/ne/node/631121.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of Maryland

April 22nd, 2022

Emergency preparedness exercise scheduled for the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station

PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise for communities around the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station. The exercise will occur during the week of April 25, 2022 to assess the ability of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of Maryland to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of Maryland.”

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.

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 10:30 a.m. on April 29, 2022.  The meeting will be conducted in a virtual format via Zoom.   Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC.  Access to the public meeting is provided below:

Join ZoomGov Meeting
https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1614341555
Meeting ID: 161 434 1555
Passcode: 688311

At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing [email protected] or by mail to:

MaryAnn Tierney
Regional Administrator
FEMA Region III
615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19106

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

 Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

Maryland 9-1-1 Board Warns that 3G Network Mobile Phones May Cease Operating in 2022

December 14th, 2021

AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile Have Announced Plans to Discontinue 3G Service

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (December 14, 2021) — The Maryland 9-1-1 Board is issuing a warning to consumers that older phones may cease operating in early 2022 due to the retirement of 3G networks and support for phones using 3G service. This may include other devices that use 3G connectivity, such as some medical alert devices, tablets, smart watches, and home security systems. The nation’s three major wireless carriers (AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile) have each announced that they plan to discontinue 3G service in favor of 4G (LTE) and 5G service in 2022. According to the FCC’s website, AT&T will discontinue service in February, T-Mobile/Sprint will discontinue service between March and July, and Verizon will discontinue service at the end of 2022 (See www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/plan-ahead-phase-out-3g-cellular-networks-and-service).

Most users of these services will be notified directly by the carriers if this discontinuation affects them. However, users of older phones used for 9-1-1 only purposes may not be notified if they do not have active service with the provider. It has long been the practice of some organizations for the homeless or domestic violence shelters to provide clients with older phones with no service, since those phones could still be used to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Users of those older 9-1-1 only phones should be aware that they may not work after 3G service is discontinued.

Low-income individuals who are concerned that their 9-1-1 only phones may no longer be supported should consider applying for service through the federal Lifeline Program. Information regarding eligibility and participating providers can be found at www.lifelinesupport.org.

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Maryland Travel Safety Week Reminds Travelers to be Prepared as Busy Holiday Season Approaches

November 19th, 2021

As Airport, Traffic Volume Rises to Near Pre-Pandemic Level, Be Ready for Longer Travel Times, Lingering COVID-19 Safety Requirements

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, MD (November 19, 2021) —  Experts say travel is returning to near pre-pandemic levels for both holiday and regular day-to-day travel, and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) wants to make sure you are as safe as possible as you move around. MDEM’s Annual Maryland Travel Safety Week is an effort to ensure that residents are equipped with the latest travel safety information as we approach what is normally the busiest travel week of the year. MDEM would like travelers to remember three things:

  1. Know Before You Go.
  2. If You See Something, Say Something.
  3. Be aware of COVID-19 restrictions that may still be in place where you travel.

“As more people travel to be with family and friends this holiday season, it is important to remember to be aware of your surroundings,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Some of us may be visiting places we have not been to in a while and might be using modes of transportation we haven’t used recently. It is important to remain alert so you can have a safe, hassle free visit.”

MDEM designated November 21-27 as Maryland Travel Safety Week in preparation of the beginning of holiday travel to encourage safe travel all year on all modes of transportation.  MDEM encourages travelers to learn about safe travel practices whether using roads, air, or rail, and as pedestrians and bike riders. You should also be aware of safety at various types of lodgings and at gatherings.

MDEM encourages Marylanders to review some of these simple practices recommended by safety specialists covering a variety of transportation methods.

Know Before You Go — Do not leave your house for travel uninformed, unprepared, and hoping to learn about travel conditions and your destination while enroute. Check on road and traffic conditions along your route; check for last minute delays or cancellations before heading to the airport or train station; always check local weather forecasts to make sure you pack appropriate clothing and prepare for potential travel delays.

If You See Something, Say Something — If you see a suspicious activity, device or package; or if you overhear a suspicious conversation, report it immediately to a facility manager, carrier employee, or law enforcement. If you see accidents or hazards along the roadway or hiking/biking trails, make sure to alert local law enforcement, highway officials, or parks employees so it can be removed.

COVID-19 Restrictions — Different communities and businesses have different pandemic travel restrictions related to vaccination status, test results, face coverings and distancing. Have electronic and/or paper copies of your COVID-19 vaccination records and pack extra face coverings for all family members to use where required. Remember that federal regulations require masks in all passenger airports and aircraft.

General COVID-19 travel safety tips

  • Do not travel if you are sick, with someone else who is sick, or if you have been around anyone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.
  • Bring additional antiseptic wipes or hand sanitizer, but beware of the size restrictions of liquid containers that can be carried onto a commercial airplane.
  • Maintain required distancing based on the regulation for the air,  rail, or bus provider.
  • COVID-19 may impact the amount of passengers, capacity of terminals and airport screening areas, and the availability of certain facilities, so factor this into your travel time.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has COVID-19 safety tips for traveling and general information.

Safety tips when traveling by motor vehicle

  • Allow extra time for travel due to increased traffic and congestion.
  • Stay alert and give driving your full attention.
  • Show courtesy to other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists and don’t drive aggressively.
  • Comply with traffic laws and heed all traffic signs, signals, and markings.
  • Make sure all passengers are using seat belts and car seats properly.
  • Make sure to have an emergency kit in your car with jumper cables, snacks, bottled water, and seasonally appropriate items like blankets and sand or cat litter.
  • Be especially careful in work zones and remember to always pull over one lane (if safely possible) or reduce speeds when emergency or service vehicles are on the shoulder.
  • Motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear U.S. DOT-approved helmets in many states. Drivers must wear eye protection as well.  Check regulations where you will be traveling.

Other information for safe travel on the roads is available from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration or  AAA Mid-Atlantic. For information about safety on Maryland toll roads, bridges, and tunnels, please visit the Maryland Transportation Authority. MDOT SHA also has motorcycle safety tips. For safety tips related to large commercial vehicles and intercity (non-transit) busses, please visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Safety tips when traveling by taxi or rideshare

  • Ask ahead for the typical price and tipping range.
  • Call for a taxi instead of hailing one.
  • If using a shared ride service like Uber or Lyft, make sure you verify the correct driver before getting into the car.
  • Look for a meter, a radio, a badge, and a door handle.
  • Sit in the backseat – not in the passenger seat.
  • Keep expensive items hidden and keep your things close.

Here are taxi safety tips from the Travel Insurance Review and here is a link to the taxi riders consumer bill of rights from the Maryland Public Service Commission.

Safety tips when traveling by air

  • Be on time, allow time to get through the security checkpoint, and build in time for possible schedule changes.
  • Always stay alert and watch your bags and belongings.
  • Don’t let anyone but uniformed airline personnel handle your bags.
  • If you need help navigating the airport, check with the information desks or airport/airline employees.
  • Be aware of what can and cannot be carried with your carry-on bags and luggage.

Other information for safe air travel can be found from Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and the Transportation Security Administration.

Safety tips when traveling by railroad

  • Always stay alert and watch your bags and belongings.
  • Watch your step when boarding and leaving the train and moving from car to car.
  • Never attempt to board or exit a moving train.
  • Make sure you familiarize yourself with the safety card found in most seat backs.Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train is due to depart.
  • Some stations require additional time.Report any suspicious behavior to police, station personnel, Amtrak Police, or by calling 1-800-331-0008.

More information about intercity rail travel safety can be found from Amtrak or the Amtrak Police. The Federal Railroad Administration has information for motorists and pedestrians at railroad crossings.

Safety tips when using public transportation (bus, subway, light rail, commuter rail)

  • Check schedules ahead of time and leave sufficient time to make appropriate connections.
  • Download apps that allow you to check arrival times and pay fares.
  • Always keep jewelry and other valuables out of sight and if your pocket is picked, yell out immediately to warn others. Don’t be afraid to shout. Tell the train or bus operator and request the police.
  • Pay particular attention to your electronics, such as cell phones, tablets, and laptop computers.
  • Use caution when on rail platforms and at bus drop-offs, especially when surfaces are wet or icy.

Here are some safety tips from Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Administration, which operates Metro bus and rail service in the Washington, D.C. area. Here are anti-theft tips from the Maryland Transit Administration, which operates bus, subway, and light rail service in the Baltimore metro area.

Safety tips for pedestrians

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks whenever possible.
  • Always stop at the curb and look left, right, and left again before crossing a street and watch for cars turning in or leaving driveways.
  • Wear light or bright colored clothing or reflective items, especially before sunrise and after sunset.
  • Pay attention and take off headphones while walking – no texting or playing games.
  • The MDOT State Highway Administration has more safety tips for pedestrians, as does the Federal Highway Administration

Safety tips for cyclists

  • Stop at all red lights and stop signs.
  • Ride defensively – expect the unexpected.
  • Ride with traffic, never against it.
  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
  • Stay visible when riding at night and during inclement weather.
  • Wear a helmet correctly.

MDOT State Highway Administration has additional bicycle safety tips, as does the Federal Highway Administration.

Safety  tips for traveling on the water

Whether piloting your own recreational boats, or traveling on a passenger vessel (cruise ship or ferry), here are some important safety tips:

  • Check weather forecasts for approaching fronts or storm watches. By the time a storm or gale warning is issued, it might be too late to get to a safe harbor.
  • Never allow passengers to ride on the bow, gunwale, transom, seat backs, or other spots where they might fall overboard.
  • Wear your engine cut-off switch lanyard and your life jacket at ALL times. If the lanyard is removed from the switch, the engine will not shut off.
  • Children under 13 must wear a United States Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device  while underway on a recreational vessel under 21 feet in length.
  • For maximum safety, ALL persons on recreational boats should wear approved Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs).
  • On passenger vessels, follow all safety directions, read prepared safety material, and participate in all life safety drills.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has specific information for recreational boats traveling in Maryland waters, including kayaks and rowboats. The United States Coast Guard also has boater safety information. The Maryland Port Administration has information for people traveling out of the Baltimore cruise ship terminal. The Cruise Critic also has some tips for traveling safely on  cruise ships.

Safety tips for lodging facilities (hotels, motels, resorts, short-term, and vacation rentals)

  • Stay in facilities that have hard-wired smoke alarms and an automatic fire sprinkler system in each guest room.
  • Read the fire evacuation plan carefully.
  • Find the two closest exits from your room.
  • Count the number of doors between your room and the exits. This will assist you if you need to evacuate in the dark.
  • Find the fire alarms on your floor.
  • If the rental is a vacation or private home, make sure the facility has dead bolt locks on all doors, locking windows, and appropriate fire, smoke, and carbon monoxide alarms.
  • If a vacation or private home rental has a swimming pool, make sure someone is observing all swimmers and that proper safety equipment is available.
  • Know the cancellation policy when making a reservation.

You can find additional safety tips for travelers staying at vacation and private home rentals from iPropertyManagement. You can find more hotel/motel safety tips from SmarterTravel.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

Marylanders Urged to Plan, Remain Vigilant as Severe Weather Is Expected Friday Through Sunday

October 28th, 2021

Annapolis Could See Third Biggest Flood in Recorded History

Significant to Major Tidal / Coastal Flooding Expected Along Shores of The Chesapeake Bay and Tidal Potomac River

Gale Warnings for The Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and Atlantic Coast Friday Morning Through Late Friday Night

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (October 28, 2021) — The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is urging all Marylanders to monitor weather conditions and ensure they are prepared for severe weather beginning this Friday, October 29 through Sunday, October 31.  The National Weather Service (NWS) is predicting a range of hazards to affect Maryland, including heavy rain, coastal and tidal flooding, and gale force winds.

“Now is the time to make sure you are ready for what this storm may bring,” said  Russ Strickland, MDEM’s Secretary. “Have a plan in case you need to leave the area, especially if you have pets. Ensure your emergency supply kit is ready to go, let family and friends know about your plans, have a portable radio to listen to weather updates in the event you lose power, make sure all your devices are charged, and that you have an extra supply of batteries.”

According to the NWS:

  1. Beginning today and lasting through Sunday, significant to major tidal / coastal flooding is expected along shores of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal Potomac River.
  2. Heavy rain with widespread amounts of 1-2 inches is also expected. Localized amounts of 3-4 inches and flooding are also possible.
  3. Gale Warnings for the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and Atlantic Coast Friday morning through late Friday night.
    1. Storm Force Winds for middle and lower portions of Chesapeake Bay and lower Potomac River.
  4. Potentially greatest tidal flooding since Hurricane Isabel in some locations. 
  5. Highest water levels most likely late Friday into early Saturday.

MDEM also reminds Maryland residents and visitors to make sure emergency kits include at least 2 face coverings for each person, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, and other COVID-19 related supplies in addition to the usual disaster supply kit components.

Here are some additional considerations while planning for severe weather and other hazards during the COVID-19 pandemic: 

  • Never walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
  • Pay attention to emergency information and alerts from official sources.
  • Determine your best protection for high winds and flooding.
  • Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
  • Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from your home and away from windows, doors, and vents.
  • If you must evacuate, bring items such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials, and two cloth face coverings per person. Children under 2 years old, people who have trouble breathing, and people who cannot take the cloth face covering off without help should not wear cloth face coverings. 

It is also important to allow extra time to evacuate because shelters might be farther away. As always, residents are better off locating shelter with family or friends outside the expected danger zone or staying at an accommodation of their choice. But State, local, and nonprofit partners will still provide shelter options. To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland during this hurricane season and beyond, text “MdReady” to 211-MD1.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

MEMA Becomes the Maryland Department of Emergency Management

September 30th, 2021

October 1 Transition Will Allow Greater Efficiency, Flexibility in Emergency Response

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 30, 2021) — The Maryland Emergency Management Agency will become the Maryland Department of Emergency Management effective Friday, October 1, 2021. It will be a principal department reporting directly to the Governor’s office, and will have greater flexibility to handle administrative functions, especially during emergencies. As part of this transition, the Maryland 9-1-1 Board will become part of the newly established department.

“These are challenging but exciting times for emergency management and this move better positions us to respond to those challenges,” said Russ Strickland, the current MEMA Executive Director who becomes Acting Secretary of Emergency Management, pending confirmation by the Maryland State Senate in 2022. “The structure of our department will help us meet those challenges more efficiently and give us greater flexibility to serve Marylanders.”

This move is part of a broader trend across the nation where emergency management agencies are moving to report directly to the chief executive in states or local communities. This direct line of communication establishes a link between emergency managers and executives within government, which reduces lag time and improves response and recovery activities. Maryland joins a growing list of states which have elevated their emergency management agencies to principal departments.

The Maryland Department of Emergency Management was enacted during the 2021 Maryland General Assembly session and signed into law by Governor Larry Hogan on May 18. The legislation also moved the Emergency Number Systems Board — also known as the Maryland 9-1-1 Board — to the new Department.

Emergency management traces its roots to 1949, when the Maryland Civil Defense Agency was created as part of the Governor’s Office to face the challenges and nuclear hazards of the Cold War. In 1989, MEMA was created as part of the Maryland Military Department to focus on all natural and man-made hazards.

Emergency management staff will still work closely with its former parent agency. The Maryland National Guard and the Maryland Defense Force will continue to be important partners in preparation, training, response, and recovery activities.

The department will continue its focus on support for local emergency managers, effective mitigation strategies, coordinating emergency response, and helping the public better prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters.

NOTE: Maryland Department of Emergency Management leadership and communications staff will be available for media interviews to discuss the transition, contact Jorge Castillo or Ed McDonough (contact information below) to arrange an interview.

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

Maryland Requests Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment

September 9th, 2021

Anne Arundel County, Cecil County, The City of Annapolis, MEMA, FEMA to Assess Damage Costs After Ida

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 9, 2021) — The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), on behalf of Anne Arundel County, Cecil County, and the City of Annapolis, has formally requested a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) from FEMA, to begin early next week. Tropical Depression Ida brought tornados, high wind, and flash flooding to the state on September 1, 2021 and caused substantial damage in the State.  

Local jurisdictions sustained damage to residences and infrastructure and incurred significant response costs, necessitating additional assistance.  As a result, Maryland, through MEMA, has requested Individual Assistance and Public Assistance Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments to be scheduled as soon as possible by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

A Joint PDA is conducted to enable our State, FEMA, and local jurisdictions to determine the magnitude of damage and impact of disasters, in this case, the damages caused directly by the remnants of Hurricane Ida. Based on the data collected during the Joint PDA, the affected jurisdictions and MEMA will determine if they will request a Presidential Disaster Declaration.

A Joint PDA does not suggest, imply, or guarantee that any federal support will be available to Maryland and the affected jurisdictions.  For more information on Joint PDAs visit www.fema.gov/disaster/how-declared/preliminary-damage-assessments

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

 

MEMA Reminds Marylanders that September is National and Maryland Preparedness Month

September 7th, 2021

Prepare to Protect: Preparing for Disasters is Protecting Everyone You Love

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 7, 2021)—September is National and Maryland Preparedness Month, and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) asks everyone to make sure they are prepared for emergencies.  As the remnants of Hurricane Ida demonstrated, Maryland has the potential for tornadoes, heavy rains and possible flooding and it is important to be prepared.

September is typically the height of the hurricane season in Maryland; it’s important to be ready for hurricane-related hazards, such as flooding, high winds, and tornados. These are all hazards that can affect the state even without a hurricane. It is important to have a family emergency plan, to have an emergency supply kit, and to be aware of the hazards that may affect you and the ones you care most about.

“While Ida is a stark reminder of the destructive capabilities of hurricanes, there are many hazards that can affect Marylanders every day of the year,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Being prepared for all emergencies is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and the ones you love.”

Flooding is the  most common hazard in Maryland, and tornadoes, severe storms, dangerous heat, and severe winter storms are among the other potential hazards. We encourage all Marylanders to remain vigilant for all hazards that might affect them during September and throughout hurricane season. Also, the COVID-19 pandemic persists, which means we must continue to include accommodations for the pandemic in evacuation and sheltering plans, and extra items needed in an emergency supply kit, such as masks and hand sanitizer.

As part of Preparedness Month, MEMA will partner with other agencies to host a series of Take Action Tuesdays Facebook Live events at 12 noon:

  • Sept. 7: Insurance and Financial Considerations and Scams
  • Sept. 14: Emergency Supply Kit, Emergency Plan, and Pet Preparedness /Preparing Your Home
  • Sept. 21: Propane Safety/Water Safety
  • Sept. 28: Preparedness for Individuals with Access and Functional Needs /Preparedness for Older Adults.

MEMA also will be participating in Twitter chats on preparedness issues in September. Please follow MEMA on Facebook and Twitter @MDMEMA.

If you live near the ocean, the Chesapeake Bay or its tributaries, it also is important to understand Maryland’s Know Your Zone hurricane evacuation plan. To learn more about the program and hurricane preparedness in Maryland, visit KnowYourZoneMD.com

You can learn more about being prepared for any hazard from MEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Weather Service or the American Red Cross.

MEMA leadership and communications staff are available for interviews for media outlets and public affairs shows throughout the month. Please contact Jorge Castillo or Ed McDonough (contact below) for arrangements. 

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CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

 

Heavy Rains, Flooding, Isolated Tornadoes May Impact Maryland

August 31st, 2021

MEMA Encourages Marylanders to Prepare as Severe Weather is Expected from Remnants of Hurricane Ida beginning late Tuesday

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Reisterstown, Md. (August 31, 2021) —  The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is advising Maryland residents to monitor weather forecasts as the remnants of Hurricane Ida are expected to impact the State beginning late Tuesday evening until Thursday morning.

According to the National Weather Service, Marylanders can expect:

  • Heavy Rain: There is the potential for significant amounts of rainfall that could lead to flash flooding and river flooding. The greatest threat is across western & north-central Maryland.
  • Winds: Gusty winds of 25-35 mph could lead to scattered instances of downed trees in soggy grounds, potentially causing power outages. Gale force winds under the stronger storms in the Chesapeake Bay, Tidal Potomac, and Atlantic Coast waters.
  • Tornadoes: Possible, with the possibility of some strong tornadoes. Risk is for most of central & eastern Maryland  Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night.
  • Tidal Flooding: Minor tidal flooding likely, with moderate tidal flooding possible at more sensitive locations.

Residents are advised to:

  • Never drive through flooded roadways. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Heed all warnings and stay indoors during severe weather.
  • Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and be sure to have a way to access local forecasts and warnings.
  • Keep devices charged in case of power outages.
  • Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
  • Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here.
  • Follow MEMA and your regional National Weather Service (NWS) social media accounts for localized forecasts.

MEMA will continue to provide updates as they become available. Traffic, weather, and power outage alerts, as well as winter preparedness information, can be accessed on MEMA’s website. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Facebook for updated information.

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     CONTACT:  

Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410.446.3333

Jorge E. Castillo, [email protected], 443.381.3518

Note to Press: MEMA Staff will be available for interviews during this incident.

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