MDEM Newsroom - Page 16 MDEM Newsroom

MEMA Recognizes National Hispanic Heritage Month

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 16, 2019) —

September is National Preparedness Month, an active month for emergency managers across the United States. Press releases, drills, trainings, social media campaigns, media interviews, expos, and presentations, are all part of the preparedness tool box that is unleashed during the month. The intent is to remind residents about the importance of planning and being prepared for emergencies before they happen, and to provide them with the tools needed to improve their resilience.

In addition to Preparedness Month from September 15 until October 15, the U.S. celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month, and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) wants to make sure that its whole community approach to preparedness message is reaching everyone. “We want to pause and recognize the Hispanic and Latinx Community in the U.S. for their invaluable contributions to our profession, our communities, and our country,” said MEMA’s Executive Director, Russ Strickland.”

In addition to a targeted digital outreach campaign in Spanish to the Hispanic community in Maryland, MEMA will be conducting an interview and facility tour with Mundo Latino Newspaper, a Baltimore-based Hispanic Print Publication which focuses largely on issues affecting the Hispanic community. “We really want our message to be heard loudly throughout all Maryland communities, and that includes the Hispanic community,” said Jorge E. Castillo, MEMA’s spokesman. “With Hispanic Heritage Month upon us, there is no better time to engage with Hispanic and Latinos to ensure that language is not a barrier for whole community preparedness.”

According to the latest FEMA National Household Survey, hazard awareness differs by age, income, gender, and race. “Minorities and underserved communities are not as likely to have read, seen, or heard information on preparedness,” added Castillo. “We have to change that and we intend to.”

MEMA encourages all residents in Maryland to connect with them via Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Facebook and for the Hispanic Community in particular to visit www.listo.gov where an array of resources in Spanish are available for Spanish-speaking residents, including templates for emergency plans, financial and insurance information, children- and teenager-specific preparedness curricula and games, and more.

The Hispanic population in the U.S. has surpassed the 60 million mark, making people of Hispanic origin the nation’s largest ethnic or racial minority. If it were a country, it would be the second largest Hispanic-origin nation in the world, after Mexico. In Maryland, it is the fastest growing minority group and according to the Pew Research Center, it has more than doubled from 228,000 in 2000 (4% of MD’s population) to 471,000% by 2010 (8% of MD’s population), and reached 556,000 (~10% of MD’s population) in 2014.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: MEMA staff will be available to arrange interviews for your article, story or public affairs show, please contact Ed McDonough or Jorge Castillo at the numbers below.

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

Maryland Eastern Shore, St. Mary’s County Under Tropical Storm Warning

Governor Hogan Urges Residents to Remain Vigilant and Prepare for Strong Winds, Flooding

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 5, 2019) — The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Dorchester, St. Mary’s, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties as Hurricane Dorian continues its track up the Atlantic coast. Current forecasts indicate that tropical storm force winds are expected for the lower Eastern Shore of Maryland and St. Mary’s County, as well as adjacent waters.

“With Hurricane Dorian expected to affect the Lower Shore and St. Mary’s County, I have directed state agencies to stand ready to respond and I urge Marylanders to take all appropriate precautions,” said Governor Hogan. “Please stay tuned to your local news stations and emergency management offices for the latest updates and, most importantly, use common sense.”

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency has increased the State’s activation level and the State Emergency Operations Center is staffed with emergency management personnel and state agency representatives.

“Residents should remain alert and follow officials’ orders, news stations, and weather forecasts in order to be informed of the situation,” said MEMA’s Executive Director Russell Strickland. “This is also a good opportunity for all Marylanders and visitors to our State to visit www.KnowYourZoneMD.com to see if they reside or are traveling in a hurricane evacuation zone,” he added.

Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the tropical storm warning area within 36 hours. MEMA advises the public to follow these instructions:

• Remain vigilant and continue to closely monitor the storm through MEMA, the NWS, and your local officials.
• If you are in or close to the tropical storm warning areas check regularly for weather updates and instructions from local officials.
• Charge phones and devices, and plan for potential power outages.
• Communicate with friends, family, & neighbors before, during, and after storms, especially during power outages.
• Head to a safe part of your home. Stay away from windows in case of flying glass.
• Never operate power generators inside a building, including garages.
• Keep your refrigerator cold. Turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting so that your food will last longer if the power goes out.
• Keep your pets safe too.
  • Make sure your pet has identification and that you keep your pet near.
  • If you evacuate and you have a pet, look for pet-friendly hotels or local animal shelters or safe kennels.
• Never drive through standing water. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

Residents or visitors to these areas should expect:

• Tropical storm force winds, and tidal flooding/storm surge could impact the state beginning on Thursday evening, particularly in southeastern Maryland.
• The strongest winds will likely affect these areas throughout the day on Friday.
• Wind gusts as high as 60 mph are possible.
• Power outages, flooding, road, and bridge closures are likely in these areas.

Governor Hogan has directed state agencies to stand ready to respond to the effects of this storm, including the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). For more information, please visit  MEMA’s website (www.mema.maryland.gov). You can also follow MEMA on Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Facebook for updated information.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: MEMA staff will be available to arrange interviews for your article, story or public affairs show, please contact Ed McDonough or Jorge Castillo at the numbers below.

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

“Prepared, Not Scared. Be Ready for Disasters”

Click here to listen to audio of this release.

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (August 30, 2019) – Are you prepared for a hurricane? Flooding? A severe thunderstorm or tornado? A winter storm? Or any type of Emergency? If the answer is no, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) reminds Marylanders that this is time to review preparedness plans. Maryland (and National) Preparedness Month, which begins September 1st, reminds us to prepare throughout the year for all emergencies and MEMA has an important message for all Marylanders:

1. Prepare for an emergency before it happens.
2. Have a plan. This means a communications plan, an evacuation & reunification plan, and a plan for your pets.
3. Know your Zone and be a good neighbor — It only takes one tropical storm or hurricane to change your life.

“We are entering the height of the hurricane season in the Mid-Atlantic Region,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “That’s why now is a good time to review preparedness plans at home, at work, and at school. Having a plan, a disaster supply kit, and paying attention to trusted weather forecasts will help protect you and your family in most emergencies. It only takes one storm to change your life.”

Making preparations when threats are not imminent make communities more resilient. In addition to flooding, hazards common to Maryland include high winds, severe thunderstorms, and winter storms. Residents should also be aware of other issues such as cybersecurity attacks, extended power outages, and active assailant incidents.

To find important emergency preparedness information for these and additional threats, visit:

1. MEMA: mema.maryland.gov
2. The Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.ready.gov
3. The National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/safety

This also is a good time for those who live, work, or visit Maryland to learn about the Know Your Zone storm preparedness and evacuation campaign. Areas of the state vulnerable to hurricane storm surge are divided into three evacuation zones – A, B, and C. Residents who live along the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries, the Atlantic Ocean, and the coastal bays should be aware if they live in a hurricane evacuation zone. It is important however to understand that all Marylanders are vulnerable to the other hazards associated with hurricanes including high wind, heavy rainfall, and tornadoes.

To find out if you live in one of the zones, please go to Maryland’s Know Your Zonewebsite at www.KnowYourZoneMd.com, click on the “Find Your Zone” button, and type your address into the search area in the upper left corner. That will tell you what, if any, evacuation zone you live, work, or vacation in. This short video explains how easy the process is and can be found at https://www.youtube.com/user/StateMarylandMEMA)

The website also contains useful information about hurricanes and preparedness tips. MEMA will be involved in preparedness events around the state throughout September. For updated information on these events, please visit MEMA’s website. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Facebook for updated information.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: MEMA staff will be available throughout September to discuss Preparedness Month and our Know Your Zone campaign. To arrange interviews for your article, story or public affairs show, please contact Ed McDonough or Jorge Castillo at the numbers below.

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

SBA Deadline for Maryland Small Businesses to Apply for Working Capital Loans

ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration is reminding businesses in Maryland that working capital loans are still available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and private nonprofit organizations affected by tornadoes that occurred on Nov. 2, 2018.

“Businesses that suffered economic losses as a result of the disaster and want to apply for low-Interest loans from the SBA are urged to do so before the Sept. 9 deadline,” said Kem Fleming, director of SBA Field Operations Center East.

Low-interest disaster loans are available in the following counties: Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick and Howard in Maryland and Adams and York in Pennsylvania.

Working capital disaster loans up to $2 million are available at 3.74 percent for small businesses, and 2.75 percent for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years. The loans are intended to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other expenses that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred. To be considered for this assistance, eligible entities need to apply by the deadline.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov.

Businesses may also obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or by emailing [email protected]. Loan applications can also be downloaded at sba.gov/disaster. Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

The deadline to return economic injury applications is Sept. 9, 2019.

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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start and grow their businesses. It delivers services to people through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Business and Residents of Virginia Affected by Severe Weather and Flooding

WASHINGTON – Virginia businesses and residents affected by severe weather and flooding on July 6-8, 2019 can apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Acting Administrator Christopher Pilkerton announced today.

Acting Administrator Pilkerton made the loans available in response to a letter from Virginia’s Gov. Ralph S. Northam on July 31, requesting a disaster declaration by the SBA. The declaration covers Arlington County and the adjacent independent cities of Alexandria and Falls Church and Fairfax County in Virginia; Montgomery County in Maryland, and the District of Columbia.

“The SBA is strongly committed to providing the people of Virginia with the most effective and customer-focused response possible to assist businesses of all sizes, homeowners and renters with federal disaster loans,” said Pilkerton. “Getting businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at SBA.”

SBA’s Customer Service Representatives will be available at the Disaster Loan Outreach Centers to answer questions about the disaster loan program and help individuals complete their applications.

The Centers are located in the following communities and are open as indicated:

“Businesses and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets,” said SBA’s Virginia District Director Carl Knoblock.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage.

“Loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property,” said Kem Fleming, center director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East in Atlanta.

Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include a safe room or storm shelter, sump pump, French drain or retaining wall to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster.

Interest rates are as low as 4 percent for businesses, 2.750 percent for nonprofit organizations, and 1.938 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amount and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov.

Businesses and individuals may also obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing), or by emailing [email protected]. Loan applications can also be downloaded at www.sba.gov. Completed applications should be returned to the center or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Oct. 7, 2019.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is May 7, 2020.

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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

Maryland “Know Your Zone” Hurricane Preparedness Campaign Enters Year Two

Program Aimed to Ease Evacuation in Areas Subject to Tidal Floods, Surge

Click here to listen to audio of this release.

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (June 6, 2019) — If you live, work, or vacation in areas of Maryland subject to tidal flooding or storm surge from a hurricane, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) wants you to Know Your Zone. The state’s hurricane evacuation plan last year transitioned to a zone-based program to allow local emergency managers to more easily message evacuation requests to residents and visitors.

The new evacuation zones were a result of the Maryland Hurricane Evacuation Study which concluded last year. The study identified 3 large areas in Maryland subject to tidal flooding. Know Your Zone aims to bring awareness of the evacuation zones to the forefront of Marylanders’ summer plans and make evacuation notices easier to disseminate.

“Everyone in Maryland should be proactive and prepared this hurricane season. Please take a minute to Know Your Zone,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “We have worked hand-in-hand with local and federal partners using the best tools, which were not available 3 years ago, in order to determine these zones and streamline a potential evacuation.”

Residents of and visitors to Maryland are encouraged to visit the interactive Know Your Zone web page, www.KnowYourZoneMd.com, where they can learn more about the project. On that page, users can type in an address and quickly find out what zone, if any, their property is located in.

The zones affect every county on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, plus counties along the western coast of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal areas of the Potomac River south of Washington, D.C. That covers 16 Maryland counties along with the City of Annapolis, Baltimore City, and Ocean City. But residents from other parts of Maryland should know the zones if they travel to affected areas for work, vacation, or to visit friends and relatives.

The zones are designated by the letters A, B and C. Zone A areas are the most likely to be impacted by severe flooding in the event of a major storm or hurricane.

In future years, the program will focus on refining evacuation routes away from the affected areas.

“Studies show that timely messaging for evacuations saves lives,” said Strickland. “This system will make it easier and safer for local emergency managers to manage a potential evacuation, but only if you Know Your Zone before a storm hits.”

While the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s recently released 2019 forecast predicts a near-normal season, it only takes one storm hitting the mid-Atlantic area to seriously affect Maryland. If local officials feel an evacuation is needed to protect lives, they will issue the order by zones instead of having to define specific geographic areas. This program is similar to one rolled out two years ago in neighboring Virginia.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November. Hurricanes can cause strong winds, heavy rain, inland flooding and other severe weather, but residents in Maryland can be prepared by ensuring they know how to receive a warning, have a plan, practice safety tips, and Know Your Zone.

Maryland can feel the impacts from a storm or a named hurricane hundreds of miles away. Hurricanes can produce 150-plus miles per hour winds, tornadoes, and tremendous flooding from both tidal surges and torrential rain.

Residents can also take the following actions to remain safe:

• Build an emergency supply kit and develop a family emergency and communications plan.
• Stay tuned to trusted sources such as the National Weather Service and local broadcasters for official weather information.
• Follow instructions and advice given by emergency officials, especially instructions related to evacuation.
• During severe weather, stay indoors away from windows, close all interior doors, and brace external doors. If you live near the shore or coast, expect the storm tide will inundate your home.
• Flooding is often our biggest threat. Monitor NWS flood warnings for your area and be prepared to seek higher ground.
• Fill a bathtub or other large containers with water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets.
• Charge electronic devices before bad weather hits and consider keeping a charger in your car.

Additional preparedness information can be found on MEMA’s website at mema.maryland.gov, our Twitter feed, our Facebook page, our LinkedIn page, and our YouTube site. Residents can also download the free MARYLAND Prepares mobile app at mema.maryland.gov/Pages/mdprepares.aspx.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland and other key staff members are available for interviews about hurricane and emergency preparedness.

CONTACT:

Jorge Eduardo Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518

Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333

Flooding, Thunderstorms, Tornadoes Among Spring Weather Threats

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Maryland Severe Storm Awareness Week is April 7-13   REISTERSTOWN, Md. (April 8, 2019) — Maryland Severe Storms Awareness Week begins on Sunday, April 7, and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is teaming up with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) and local emergency managers to promote citizen awareness and preparedness. The 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 and is particularly at risk for flooding, but also experiences hailstorms and even tornadoes. Maryland has had nearly 100 tornadoes in the past ten years. “If you hear thunder or see lightning, try to get inside right away,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “And never try to drive across flooded roadways. If you need to leave your shelter due to damage or an emergency, bring your emergency kit and a charged cell phone with you.” Residents can be “weather prepared” by ensuring that they know how to receive a warning, have a plan, and practice safety tips. “Every year, Maryland gets severe thunderstorms that target localized communities” said Christopher Strong, NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the Baltimore/Washington Forecast Office. “If Marylanders get National Weather Service warnings from phone apps and/or weather radio, and have a plan for what to do, we can all stay safe from the damaging winds, large hail, flooding, tornadoes, and lightning.“ The NWS and MEMA work closely together 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 drive over an area where water is flowing over the 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. More than 98% of lightning casualties are from people outdoors—get indoors or inside your vehicle if possible. Additional information can be found at the NWS “Weather Ready” website and the MEMA website. Residents can also click here to download the Maryland Prepares Mobile App . NOTE: MEMA officials are available for live or taped interviews to discuss severe storm preparedness and safety. ### CONTACT: Jorge Castillo, [email protected], 443-381-3518 Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333 24/7 line: 877-636-2872

State Agencies Activated as Winter Storm Hits Maryland

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

State Agencies Activated as
Winter Storm Hits Maryland

Marylanders encouraged to avoid travel if possible  REISTERSTOWN, Md. (February 20, 2019) — Maryland state agencies have been busy preparing for the snowstorm that has begun impacting Maryland communities this morning. “Our state agencies are working hard to ensure Maryland is prepared for this dangerous storm, and we are doing everything possible to keep Marylanders safe,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “However, this storm is creating dangerous conditions in many areas of the state and the snow is continuing to fall, so I urge Marylanders to take extreme caution, avoid travel if possible, and heed all local warnings.” Here are some of the activities state agencies have been conducting in response to the storm: Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Coordinating conference calls with the National Weather Service, local emergency management partners, state agencies, and non-governmental stakeholders. Conducting enhanced operations and coordination in the State Emergency Operations Center. Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT)  State Highway Administration (SHA) SHA has deployed more than 2,200 pieces of equipment (plows, salt trucks, etc.) to mitigate the impacts of snow this morning. MDOT SHA is encouraging Marylanders to delay unnecessary travel as snow continues to fall throughout the day. Asking motorists to remember to clear ENTIRE vehicle off before traveling as large sheets of snow/ice can fly off vehicles and be a hazard. Coordinating activities and snow operations through the Statewide Operations Center at SHA headquarters in Hanover, MD. Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) MDTA has deployed 119 pieces of equipment clearing roadways on its eight toll facilities. MDTA is encouraging residents to stay home and off the roadways to allow crews time and space to treat roads. MDTA has closed several E-ZPass Maryland Customer Service Centers. Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport The BWI Marshall Airport winter weather team has been in place since the early morning hours.  Personnel pre-treated runways and taxiways, and the airport’s winter weather employees will treat and plow the airfield, and parking lots, and public roadways as appropriate. Airline flights are operating. However, airline flight delays and cancellations are expected throughout Wednesday. BWI encourages passengers with travel plans to contact their airlines for updated flight status information.  The BWI Marshall Airport website also provides airline flight information. MDOT Maryland Transit Administration For a full list of service status, go to MTA website. Light RailLink: There is no impact to service at this time. Customers are reminded to use extra caution in and around stations and platforms. Metro SubwayLink: There is no impact to service at this time. Customers reminded to use extra caution in and around stations and platforms. MARC: Penn and Camden lines will operate on an “R” schedule. Brunswick Line Service is suspended. Mobility: Mobility service is running. MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration MDOT MVA Salisbury (Wicomico County) and Easton (Talbot County) branch offices are open for service today.  The remaining offices and VEIP stations are closed. Customers will be contacted to reschedule appointments. MDOT MVA also encourages customers to complete transactions online at MVA’s website. Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore All public marine terminals were pre-treated in advance. Truck gates are open at both the Dundalk and Seagirt marine terminals.  Ships are being worked. Maintenance crews will operate on 12-hour shifts for snow removal. Maryland State Police MSP is conducting regular and supplemental patrols to address rush hour traffic. MSP units will provide assistance throughout the duration of the event. Between midnight and 10:30 a.m. MSP reports 80 total accidents (61 non-reportable and 19 reportable) and 394 calls for service. Accident numbers were trending lower than normal until approximately 08:30 a.m., then they spiked higher. Current Snow Emergency Plans are in effect in 15 Counties: Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Frederick, Garret, Harford, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Saint Mary’s, Queen Annes, and Washington. The closures have caused less traffic which has greatly assisted. If a motorist does become stranded, they should not attempt to walk. MSP discourages citizens from calling to ask about road and weather conditions. Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) The Maryland PSC has reached out to Maryland utility providers to assess their readiness activities and to confirm the utilities have emergency power restoration plans in place. Baltimore Gas & Electric has deployed extra crews Wednesday morning and are staging at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore to address any power restoration issues that may arise from the winter weather. ### CONTACT: Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333 24/7 line: 877-636-2872

Marylanders urged to prepare now, winter storm starting overnight

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MARYLANDERS URGED TO PREPARE NOW, WINTER STORM STARTING OVERNIGHT

Snow, Ice, Freezing Rain, Frigid Temperatures to Affect Maryland this Weekend

MEMA is Monitoring Storm, Closely Coordinating with State Agencies, National Weather Service

Click here to listen to audio of this release.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 18, 2019) — Winter weather is expected to affect the Mid-Atlantic and New England region beginning tomorrow, Saturday January 19, 2019.  According to the National Weather Service, here is what Maryland residents can expect:

• The system will bring a mix of snow, ice, and freezing rain to most of our State.
• Expect snow, sleet, and freezing rain accumulation which will make traveling conditions dangerous, with a couple of inches of snow and ice accumulation for the western and central portion of the State.
• Winds will affect the state this weekend with gusts up to 30-40 mph.
• Plan for potential power outages and flying debris.
• On Sunday night, temperatures will dip into the dangerously low single digits.

“The forecast and track of the storm can change at any time, and that could potentially mean worsening weather and hazards for residents in parts of our State,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Plan for power outages and prepare your family accordingly.
Make sure you monitor the weather forecast, heed all official warnings, and pay attention to state and local emergency management and transportation officials.”

As the storm moves out of the region, a mass of frigid air will be moving in and bringing dangerously cold temperatures. With peak gusts around 40 mph, the expected wind chill will also make conditions hazardous making it feel well below zero degrees Fahrenheit throughout Maryland.

Extreme cold weather can lead to serious health issues.The Maryland Department of Health’s Office of Preparedness and Response has an array of helpful information about extreme cold weather and how to protect yourself and your family here: https://preparedness.health.maryland.gov/Pages/resources_cold.aspx

MEMA advises Maryland residents to take the following actions:

• Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
• Plan for power outages and prepare accordingly.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here.
• Never run generators indoors, in closed areas, or near vents.
• Check on your elderly neighbors during and after the storm.
• If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter or sand for traction, blankets, extra winter clothes including hats and gloves, snacks, and water in case you become stranded.
• Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
• Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
• Dress in several layers when venturing outside in the extreme cold.  Frostbite and Hypothermia can set in in minutes.

MEMA is closely monitoring the storm and will continue coordinating efforts with local emergency management officials and state agencies.

In addition to these tips, please check out this winter preparedness tip video (bit.ly/Winter-Preparedness-Tips) on MEMA’s YouTube Channel.

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.