MDEM Newsroom - Page 16 MDEM Newsroom
Flooding, Thunderstorms, Tornadoes Among Spring Weather Threats
April 8th, 2019FOR 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:
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: |
State Agencies Activated as Winter Storm Hits Maryland
February 20th, 2019FOR 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)
Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) State Highway Administration (SHA)
Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA)
Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport
MDOT Maryland Transit Administration
MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration
Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore
Maryland State Police
Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC)
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Marylanders urged to prepare now, winter storm starting overnight
February 19th, 2019FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARYLANDERS URGED TO PREPARE NOW, WINTER STORM STARTING OVERNIGHT
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Gov. Hogan urges residents to use good judgement during morning rushSnow, Ice, Freezing Rain, Frigid Temperatures to Affect Maryland this Weekend
January 18th, 2019MEMA 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.
Winter Storm Warnings Expanded for Most of Maryland
January 12th, 2019MEMA Increases State Activation Level to Coordinate State Agencies
Click here to listen to audio of this release.
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 12, 2019) — The first significant statewide winter weather event of 2019 will be affecting Maryland later today through Sunday. According to the National Weather Service, here is what we can expect:
- Snow is expected tonight through Sunday night.
- Significant accumulations are expected statewide.
- Wind Gusts: 20-25 mph Eastern Shore on Sunday (less than 20 mph elsewhere).
- Temperatures will be near freezing except in the mid-30s in Southern Maryland and Eastern Shore during the afternoon & the 20s at night.
The National Weather Service has extended Winter Storm Warnings, which are currently in place for most of the state. Counties under a Winter Storm Warning include Allegany, Anne Arundel, Calvert, Carroll, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, St. Mary’s, Somerset, Washington and Wicomico. Baltimore City is also under a Winter Storm Warning. Counties under a Winter Weather Advisory include Baltimore, Caroline, Cecil, Garrett, Harford, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Talbot, and Worcester.
“The incoming winter storm will bring accumulating snow to our entire state,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I have directed all state agencies to work together to prepare for this storm and keep our citizens safe and informed. Now we ask all Marylanders to remain vigilant, use common sense, stay off the roads, and heed all official warnings.”
The amount of accumulating snow forecasted has increased since yesterday in several parts of the state, particularly southern Maryland and the Eastern Shore. Areas like La Plata may see 8-12 inches of snow, while Salisbury could see 6-8 inches before the system moves out of the region.
“The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) advises all residents to follow weather forecasts as they are updated and pay attention to state and local emergency management and transportation officials,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Above all, please put safety first and communicate with your neighbors, family, and friends.”
MEMA continues to closely monitor the storm and continues coordinating efforts with local emergency management officials and state agencies.
MEMA advises Maryland residents to take the following actions:
- Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
- 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.
- Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here.
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.
First Winter Storm of 2019 Could Bring Accumulating Snow
January 11th, 2019FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEMA Continues to Monitor Situation, Advises Residents to be Vigilant and Take Appropriate Actions to Stay Safe
Click here to listen to audio of this release.
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 11, 2019) — An incoming winter storm will likely bring accumulating snow to most of Maryland beginning this Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm watches for several counties in Maryland and expects to issue winter storm advisories and warnings as the storm gets closer.
“With the potential for our first statewide winter weather event of 2019, I ask all Marylanders to put safety first by staying off the roads during the storm, following your local weather forecasts, and heeding all warnings,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Our state agencies and employees are working diligently in preparation for the storm to keep our roads passable, but for a large portion of the state, the potential of accumulating snow is a real concern. As we prepare for this winter weather, I urge all Marylanders to use common sense and take all necessary precautions.”
Snow is expected to begin falling Saturday afternoon for most of our state and continue into Sunday with some areas in Maryland readying to see 3 to 6 inches of accumulating snow. Less snow is predicted to affect the western portions of the Eastern Shore of Maryland but the accumulation forecast for Maryland could change as the storm gets closer. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) advises all residents to follow weather forecasts as they are updated and pay attention to your local emergency management officials, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA), and the MD Department of Transportation (MDOT). In addition to snow, the majority of the State will see temperatures around the freezing mark during the event with lows on Sunday in the mid-20s.
“MEMA is closely monitoring the storm and is coordinating preparedness efforts with local emergency management officials and state agencies,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Residents in different areas of Maryland may feel different effects from this weather system, so stay vigilant and monitor the storm through its duration,” he concluded. It is possible that lingering effects of the storm and below freezing temperatures will affect Monday morning’s commute and may cause school closings or delays.
MEMA advises Maryland residents to take the following actions:
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Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
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Never run generators indoors, in closed areas, or near vents.
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Check on your elderly neighbors during and after the storm.
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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.
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Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
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Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
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Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here.
In addition to these tips, please check out this winter preparedness tip video (bit.ly/Winter-Preparedness-Tips) on our YouTube Channel.
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CONTACT:
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410.446.3333
Jorge E. Castillo, [email protected], 443.381.3518
Winter Fire Safety Tips
January 11th, 2019
FIRE SAFETYDURING THE WINTER MONTHSREMINDER
STATEWIDE SAFETY RELEASE (January 11, 2019) — AS OF TODAY, THERE HAVE BEEN SIX FIRE FATALITIES ACROSS THE STATE. The MAJORITY of those fatalities DID NOT HAVE WORKING SMOKE ALARMS in their homes. If you cannot afford a smoke alarm PLEASE contact your local fire department to inquire as to what assistance is available in your area. State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci reminds all residents of Maryland to check for fire safety where they live, work, attend classes, training and meetings. “Fire and life safety is everyone’s responsibility; by testing smoke alarms and CO detectors, keeping exits clear of obstructions, and maintaining fire alarms and fire sprinkler systems, we can all avoid injury or death from the effects of fire.” To ensure your best chances of surviving a fire, the State Fire Marshal offers the following tips on both escaping a fire and preventing one: Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly. Remember, the effects of toxic smoke and gases can quickly overcome your ability to think clearly. Every second counts when escaping a fire. Also check the dates on your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, if they are 10 years old or older, they should be replaced. Check exits in both your home and any place you go to ensure you will be able to get to safety. Blocked exits resulting from improperly placed chairs, tables or even holiday decorations can result in the delay of getting out quickly and safely. Be vigilant of these safety concerns whether at church, school or your local favorite eatery. Ensure snow is removed from the outside of doors as well. When using portable non-vented fuel-fired heaters, such as kerosene heaters, make sure to use only the recommended fuel specified in the owner’s manual and NEVER use gasoline. Note: Portable kerosene heaters are banned for use in Baltimore City. If you find it necessary to use an electric space heater, use only one that has been approved by an authorized testing laboratory such as UL. Plug space heaters directly into an outlet. NEVER use an extension cord or power strip as they can easily overheat and cause a fire. Keep all portable space heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible. If heating equipment fails, do not use kitchen stoves or ovens to supply heat. These appliances are not designed for that purpose and the chance of a fire improves greatly. When using fireplaces, wood stoves or pellet stoves; please ensure these heat sources have been installed and properly serviced by trained technicians according to state and local codes, allowing them to work at peak efficiency and lower the risk of a catastrophic failure. Place ashes in a metal container with a lid. Please ensure you have the chimney cleaned and inspected before use. Never leave candles burning unattended. Extinguish the flame before leaving the room. Consider battery operated candles instead of flaming candles for safety. If a fire occurs inside your home, close the doors behind you as you vacate to the outside, call 911 and never go back inside the home. Tell arriving first responders if anyone is still inside.
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Have Chimneys Properly Cleaned.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal is an agency of the Department of State Police dedicated to helping protect citizens from fire and explosion through a comprehensive program of education, inspection, investigation and fire protection engineering. For more information on fire safety call 1-800-525-3124, log onto our website at: Maryland State Fire Marshal and/or our Facebook Page. |
1201 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDFIRE/bulletins/227965f |
FirstNet – MEMA Spotlight
January 8th, 2019In May 2018, Washington County was impacted by significant flooding in the southern part of the county. With low bandwidth Wi-Fi and the location of the command post nestled in a valley between two mountains, communication and data transfer served as a great challenge. Washington County Sheriff Doug Mullendore coordinated with FirstNet to keep emergency responders connected by calling in the Satellite Cell on Light Truck (SatCOLT). FEMA, MEMA, local emergency responders, and county employees all utilized the connection offered by FirstNet…
<<Download and Read the Full Article: FirstNet – MEMA Spotlight (PDF)
Heavy rains expected across Maryland
December 20th, 2018FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FLASH FLOOD WATCHES ISSUED
ACROSS MUCH OF MARYLAND
Follow local forecasts, use caution while traveling
REISTERSTOWN, MD (December 20, 2018) – More heavy rain is expected over much of Maryland during the next two days as the wettest year on record continues. The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for all of the state except extreme Western Maryland and parts of the lower Eastern Shore. “The rain has been relentless this year and late December appears to be no exception,” said Maryland Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Even as we prepare for the upcoming holidays, take some time to follow local weather forecasts and remember to use common sense when travelling.” Because of heavy rains last week, many streams and rivers are running high and the ground is close to saturated, so flooding is possible. The National Weather Service is predicting one to two inches of rain across most of the state, with isolated pockets of three inches or more. As of now, the flood watches are in effect until late Friday night or early Saturday morning. Additionally, the National Weather Service predicts the rain could change to snow later Friday or early Saturday in extreme Western Maryland, with accumulating snow possible. If you plan to travel through those areas, please check local forecasts closely and delay travel if road conditions deteriorate. Remember to never drive through standing water and never drive around barriers set up to block water-covered roads. Turn Around, Don’t Drown. For more flood preparedness information, please visit www.mema.maryland.gov or www.ready.gov. For current weather forecast information, visit www.Weather.gov. |
FEMA, State Continue Building Resiliency in Maryland
November 30th, 2018|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“Our administration recognizes the importance of preparedness in the event of an emergency,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “The Maryland Resilience Retreat is an opportunity to both learn and share best practices and knowledge surrounding effective emergency management. Being prepared is a shared responsibility, and Maryland will continue to embrace our leadership role as a national model for resiliency and security.” Emergency managers want Americans to understand that emergencies can happen at any time with little to no warning. Major events like hurricanes arrive with advance notice, and they bring along the potential for devastating effects. Conversely, flooding events, the most common disaster across the United States, can happen with no warning. “Across Maryland, we have seen the impacts of disasters on our communities,” stated Russ Strickland, Executive Director of MEMA. “Every incident is different and affects communities to varying extents. We want Marylanders and State officials to understand the risks of natural and human-caused disasters and to take steps to reduce those risks. This knowledge will help shape a resilient Maryland where communities thrive.” MEMA hosts information on individual preparedness, such as the Know Your Zone hurricane preparedness and evacuation awareness campaign, and all-hazard stakeholder-specific learning resources, at their website at mema.maryland.gov. Recent emergencies, such as the California wildfires and recent hurricane seasons, highlight the importance of building a culture of preparedness throughout the Nation. FEMA Administrator Brock Long, FEMA Region III Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney, and MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland also met at MEMA to discuss resiliency in the State and the long-term recovery efforts of Maryland communities impacted by disasters. “Maryland’s communities are developing their culture of preparedness thanks to MEMA’s efforts and Maryland’s recognition that we must engage with the whole community to instill a true culture of preparedness,” stated MaryAnn Tierney, FEMA Region III Regional Administrator. “It starts with individuals – do you have insurance coverage or a plan for how you’ll recover? Do you know what you’ll do in an emergency? That expands to businesses, non-profits, and beyond. A true culture of preparedness starts at the bottom and works its way up.” This collaboration includes FEMA’s continuing support and engagement with the State in recovering from May 2018 flooding events across multiple Maryland jurisdictions. There are a wide variety of resources to help individuals, businesses, voluntary and non-profit organizations, and communities to prepare:
MEMA and FEMA continue to work together to help communities across Maryland prepare for potential disasters, whether they are personal emergencies, a flooding event across county lines, or a major hurricane. It takes all of us to prepare for these events and build a culture of preparedness across the State and the Nation. Developing resiliency and preparedness strategies now can make a tremendous difference in our ability to respond to future disasters. For more information on MEMA, please visit mema.maryland.gov. For more information on FEMA, please visit www.fema.gov. For more information on FEMA Region III, which covers the State of Maryland, please visit www.fema.gov/region-iii-dc-de-md-pa-va-wv. FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region III’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts are available at fema.gov/medialibrary and youtube.com/fema. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3. |
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (November 30, 2018) — The State of Maryland and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) understand the importance of risk reduction and vulnerability identification before a disaster strikes. On November 29 – 30, 2018, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), FEMA, the United States Department of Energy, and the National Governors Association met with Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s Executive Council at the Maryland Resilience Retreat. These partners came together to build an interdisciplinary understanding of resilience and identify how Maryland’s state agencies can leverage programs and relationships to reduce statewide risk and advance resilience.