MDEM Newsroom - Page 20 MDEM Newsroom
MEMA Monitoring Series of Winter Storms Expected to Bring Mix of Precipitation to Parts of State
March 19th, 2018Residents Should Be Aware and Take Appropriate Actions to Stay Safe
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (March 19, 2018) — A series of winter storms is expected to bring frozen precipitation to parts of Maryland, starting tonight and continuing through Wednesday. Timing, temperature and the exact track of each of the systems is still somewhat uncertain, but residents should prepare now for possible travel delays. The most likely snow accumulations in northern and central Maryland are expected to occur overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning, possibly affecting rush hour traffic.
“This winter storm is extremely unpredictable, so preparedness is key,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Over the next few days, I urge Marylanders to closely follow current weather forecasts, use common sense, and avoid travel if possible during any dangerous conditions.”
Said Russell Strickland, executive director of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA): “Don’t underestimate this storm because Tuesday is the first day of spring. We are looking at several days of precipitation with temperatures close to freezing. Travel by car or foot could be dangerous.”
MEMA is coordinating conference calls with the four National Weather Service Offices that serve the state, along with key state agencies and local emergency managers. The agency stands ready to mobilize resources in support of local agencies as needed.
Because there is still uncertainty about effects of these systems, residents should follow trusted weather sources and be prepared to adjust travel contact information.as needed. Residents in different areas of Maryland may face different effects from this weather system.
Additionally, Maryland residents should consider taking the following actions:
- Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
- Check on family, neighbors and friends, especially those who might have difficulty dealing with the effects of the weather.
- Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
- If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter or sand for traction. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
- Never run generators indoors or in closed areas.
- Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found at http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutages.asp
Traffic, weather and power outage alerts, as well as winter preparedness information, can be accessed on the Maryland Emergency Management Agency’s website at mema.maryland.gov.
You can also follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA for updated information.
What does a “State of Emergency” mean?
March 2nd, 2018What does a “State of Emergency” mean?
In response to the damaging winds resulting in power outages, downed trees, and dangerous travel conditions across the state due to Winter Storm Riley, Governor Larry Hogan has declared a State of Emergency.
The executive order will allow the state to efficiently coordinate support and provide additional assistance to local jurisdictions. Dangerous conditions may continue throughout the weekend.
Here is information on what a state of emergency means.
Not all states of emergency are the same. Each state of emergency is different and can change depending on the severity of the event or emergency. Be sure to check with your local news and with MEMA for updated information related to states of emergency.
A state of emergency is declared in order to allow Maryland to coordinate and request emergency resources and support. A state of emergency allows the Governor to access certain resources in order to increase the State’s response.
A state of emergency is a good indicator that residents should remain alert and follow officials’ orders, news stations, and weather forecasts in order to be informed of the situation. In this particular case, residents are being advised that they should prepare for a significant winter storm and that motorists should avoid nonessential travel after the snow begins to fall. Here is additional information about this state of emergency:
Will schools be closed?
States of Emergencies typically do not mandate school closures. It usually is the local school district’s decision to stay open or to close.
Will stores and businesses be open?
This state of emergency does not require employers to close. We ask that all employers consider employee safety at all times.
Can I drive on the roads?
Motorists are not prohibited from driving on the roads at this time. Use common sense–if you must drive and cannot change your plans, please do so carefully. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination. Let family or friends know your route and expected arrival time.
Governor Larry Hogan Declares State of Emergency for Winter Storm Riley
March 2nd, 2018Click here to read the State of Emergency press release.
Click here to read the executive order.
Governor Hogan Urges Marylanders to Prepare for Extreme Winds Beginning Friday Morning
March 1st, 2018Governor Hogan Urges Marylanders to Prepare for Extreme Winds Beginning Friday Morning
Dangerous Conditions Outdoors and Power Outages Possible
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (March 1, 2018) — The storm system that will affect the entire state of Maryland beginning Thursday evening is expected to bring extreme wind and rain across Maryland. The most dangerous conditions are forecast to begin by 6am Friday morning, with gusty winds continuing throughout the weekend.
“I urge all Marylanders to take this severe weather very seriously and prepare now,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “These wind speeds have the potential of causing power outages and creating hazardous conditions for travel and being outdoors starting Friday morning. Be sure to check on your family, friends, and neighbors so that we all are prepared for this rare and potentially very dangerous weather event.”
Wind gusts of up to 70 or more miles per hour are forecast for tomorrow morning and will push through into the weekend according the National Weather Service. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency continues to actively monitor this storm and coordinate with state and local partners to ensure readiness.
“Residents need to prepare for this system now. These forecasted wind gusts are very serious,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Take the time now to go out and secure all loose objects outside that could blow away. Keep devices fully charged, before the wind starts blowing, in case the power goes. If at all possible, do not go out during the height of the storm.”
In addition to the high winds, accumulating snow is possible in western Maryland Thursday night into Friday. Other parts of western and central Maryland can expect some frozen precipitation to mix with the rain for part of the storm, but the wind is expected to present the greatest danger. Additionally, tidal flooding is possible along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean on both Friday and Saturday. The National Weather Service is also predicting severe beach erosion for areas of the Eastern Shore and dangerous marine conditions.
Residents can take the following actions to prepare for high winds and related hazards:
- Check on relatives, neighbors, and friends if possible, especially those who might be seriously affected by a power outage.
- Avoid traveling early in the morning during the height of the storm. Let family and friends know of your destination, route, and expected arrival time.
- Know how to contact your electric supplier if the power goes out. For a list of power company contacts or to keep track of outages in Maryland, visit mema.maryland.gov. Put their phone number in your contact list and save it.
- Power Outages can be monitored here: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutagesData.aspx
- If you use a generator during a power outage, make sure to follow all safety recommendations and never run a generator inside a building or near windows and vents.
- Make sure not to leave pets outside during the storm.
For more preparedness information, visit mema.maryland.gov or ready.gov.
Residents Should Prepare Now for Strong Winds Beginning Tonight
March 1st, 2018Residents Should Prepare Now for Strong Winds Beginning Tonight
MEMA Monitoring Storm System that will Bring Rain, High Winds, Possible Power Outages
“This storm has the potential to knock down trees, cause extended power outages, and cause dangerous debris,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Make sure to keep devices fully charged in case the power goes out and try to secure any loose objects around your property. If at all possible, do not go out during the height of the storm.”
Accumulating snow is possible in extreme western Maryland Thursday night into Friday. Other parts of western and central Maryland can expect some frozen precipitation to mix with the rain for part of the storm, but the wind is expected to present the greatest danger. Additionally, tidal flooding is possible along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean on both Friday and Saturday. The National Weather Service is also predicting severe beach erosion for areas of the Eastern Shore and dangerous marine conditions.
Residents can take the following actions to prepare for high winds and related hazards:
- Check on relatives, neighbors, and friends if possible, especially those who might be seriously affected by a power outage.
- If you must be out during the storm, let family and friends know of your destination, route, and expected arrival time.
- Know how to contact your electric supplier if the power goes out. For a list of power company contacts or to keep track of outages in Maryland, visit mema.maryland.gov.
- If you do not already have one, consider using a car charger to keep devices charged if you lose power for a long time.
- If you use a generator during a power outage, make sure to follow all safety recommendations and never run a generator inside a building or near windows and vents.
- Make sure not to leave pets outside during the storm.
For more preparedness information, visit mema.maryland.gov or ready.gov.
What does a “State of Emergency” mean?
January 4th, 2018What does a “State of Emergency” mean?
In anticipation of heavy snowfall, winds, and freezing temperatures, potential power outages, hazardous travel conditions, and potentially impassable roadways, Governor Larry Hogan has declared a State of Emergency for Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties beginning Wednesday, January 3, 2018. This executive order will allow the state to efficiently coordinate support and provide additional assistance to those communities.
Here is information on what a state of emergency means.
Not all states of emergency are the same. Each state of emergency is different and can change depending on the severity of the event or emergency. Be sure to check with your local news and with MEMA for updated information related to states of emergency.
A state of emergency is declared in order to allow Maryland to coordinate and request emergency resources and support. A state of emergency allows the Governor to access certain resources in order to increase the State’s response.
A state of emergency is a good indicator that residents should remain alert and follow officials’ orders, news stations, and weather forecasts in order to be informed of the situation. In this particular case, residents are being advised that they should prepare for a significant winter storm and that motorists should avoid nonessential travel after the snow begins to fall. Here is additional information about this state of emergency:
Will schools be closed?
States of Emergencies typically do not mandate school closures. It usually is the local school district’s decision to stay open or to close.
Will stores and businesses be open?
This state of emergency does not require employers to close. We ask that all employers consider employee safety at all times.
Can I drive on the roads?
Motorists are not prohibited from driving on the roads at this time. Use common sense–if you must drive and cannot change your plans, please do so carefully. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination. Let family or friends know your route and expected arrival time.
MEMA Monitoring Winter Storm and Arctic Front Starting Tonight, Eastern Shore Bracing for Heaviest Snowfall
January 3rd, 2018Residents Should Be Aware and Take Appropriate Actions to Stay Safe
Click here to listen to audio of this release.
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 3, 2018) — A winter storm will move up the East Coast Wednesday night, bringing accumulating snow to parts of Maryland, with wind gusts and frigid temperatures across the State. The National Weather Service has issued either Winter Storm or Blizzard Warnings for the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Winter Weather Advisories for much of central and southern Maryland, and the national capital region.
These areas could see significant snowfall, which will begin late tonight on the lower Eastern Shore and spread northward overnight. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) advises all residents in and around these areas to follow weather forecasts as they are updated. In addition to snow, the majority of the State will have frigid temperatures.
“As we prepare for this winter weather I urge all Marylanders to use common sense and take all necessary precautions,” said Governor Hogan. “Our state agencies and employees are working very hard to keep our roads passable, but the freezing temperatures we are experiencing could create extremely dangerous conditions. Put safety first by staying off the roads whenever possible, following your local weather forecasts, and heeding all warnings.”
MEMA is closely monitoring the storm and is coordinating preparedness and response efforts with local emergency management officials and state agencies. Residents in different areas of Maryland may feel different effects from this weather system. It is possible that light snow could fall in the Baltimore-Washington corridor early tomorrow and affect the Thursday morning commute.
MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland said, “Marylanders on the Eastern Shore and in southern Maryland should stay off the roads during the storm. Commuters and travelers should pay close attention to morning traffic and weather reports and plan accordingly.”
Additionally, Maryland residents should consider taking the following actions:
- Closely monitor updated weather forecasts and keep electronic communications devices charged.
- Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
- If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter or sand for traction, and blankets and drinks in case you become stranded. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
- Never run generators indoors, in closed areas, or near vents.
- Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here.
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 and Facebook for updated information.
Maryland Emergency Management Agency Monitoring After Earthquake Near Delaware Coast
November 30th, 2017REISTERSTOWN, Md. (November 30, 2017) — In the wake of the earthquake that hit off the coast of Delaware this afternoon, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency is monitoring for any reports of damage.
The quake, which the United States Geological Survey currently lists as a 4.1 magnitude, hit just before 4:50 p.m. off the Delaware coast, about 6 miles east/northeast of Dover. Reports say it was felt as far east as the I-95 corridor in central Maryland.
While earthquakes are not common in this region, they do happen. In August of 2011, most of Maryland felt a magnitude 5.8 earthquake that was centered near Mineral, Va.
For more information about earthquakes in Maryland, please visit: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/resources-Earthquakes.aspx
For more general information about earthquake preparedness, visit: https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes
“Great ShakeOut” Earthquake Drill to Occur Tomorrow (10/19)
October 18th, 2017“Great ShakeOut” Earthquake Drill to Occur Tomorrow (10/19)
All Marylanders Encouraged to Participate and Practice Earthquake Preparedness
Click here to listen to audio of this release.
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (October 18, 2017) — The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is asking residents to register and take part in the Great Southeast ShakeOut earthquake drill tomorrow. Participants will learn proper earthquake preparedness and safety techniques while participating in this nationwide exercise. This year’s ShakeOut is set for Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 10:19 a.m.
“While Maryland experiences earthquakes less often than other hazards, the fact is that they can and do occur in our State,” said Russ Strickland, executive director of MEMA. “Residents should drill for these no-notice events just like they practice fire, severe weather, and other regular drills.”
The ShakeOut drill is free and open to the public. Individuals, families, schools, businesses, government agencies, and many other groups can all participate in tomorrow’s drill. Those wanting to participate are asked to register by visiting www.shakeout.org. Thousands of Maryland residents have already registered for the 2017 drill.
During the self-led drill, participants practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” Endorsed by emergency officials and first responders, the safe response to an earthquake is to:
- Drop to the ground,
- Take Cover under a table or desk, and
- Hold On to it.
For more information about emergency preparedness, please visit our website at mema.maryland.gov, Twitter feed and Facebook page.
NOTE TO MEDIA: For information about Maryland participants in the drill, please visit www.shakeout.org/southeast and click on the Maryland icon on the map. Please contact participating organizations directly if you want to do a story about their participation.
Governor Larry Hogan Directs National Guard to Assist Puerto Rico Following Hurricane Maria
September 29th, 2017Governor Larry Hogan Directs National Guard to Assist Puerto Rico Following Hurricane Maria
Maryland National Guard’s 29th Combat Aviation Brigade to Assist with Water Purification Efforts
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan today announced that he has directed the Maryland National Guard to send resources requested by Puerto Rico to assist in response and relief efforts following Hurricane Maria. The governor’s directive follows conversations with the Governor of Puerto Rico, Ricardo Rossello, and other communications between staff-level officials. The governor has authorized the deployment of a 26-member detachment of the Maryland National Guard’s 29th Combat Aviation Brigade, which will deploy for potentially 60 days to conduct water purification with two tactical systems that can each purify 1,200 gallons of water per hour. Fresh water has been in critically short supply in Puerto Rico since Hurricane Maria made landfall on September 20th. Putting their equipment to use, the National Guard members will be assigned with converting hazardous water into water that is safe for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
“During my conversation with Governor Rossello, I offered the full support of the State of Maryland to Puerto Rico and all areas devastated by these recent storms,” said Governor Hogan. “Maryland is fortunate to have been spared the worst effects of this hurricane season so far, and we stand ready to respond to those in desperate need of resources.”
The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) leads the state’s coordination of resource support through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which allows for states and territories to share resources during and after disasters.
“The emergency management system in Maryland is filled with local, state, private, and non-governmental partners dedicated to ensuring the safety and resiliency of Maryland citizens. They also stand ready to support our sister states and territories in times of need,” said Executive Director Russell Strickland. “MEMA will continue to coordinate requests for assistance in response to and recovery from disasters.”
Maryland currently has a mission deployed to Florida supporting response and recovery operations. Twenty-two members of the Maryland Incident Management Team (IMT) have been managing four separate base camps in Florida that house and feed responding personnel. The assisting IMT members are from Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Washington Counties, the City of Baltimore, and the Town of Ocean City.
Maryland has recently completed five support missions in Texas and Florida following Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, respectively. These include:
- The Maryland Department of Human Services sent staff to support disaster sheltering in the Houston, Texas area. The human service workers provided shelter set up, logistical support, and additional disaster services.
- Howard County Recreation and Parks sent a debris clearing and removal team to Southern Florida in order to assist the opening of roadways.
- The Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems and MEMA coordinated the deployment of a critical incident stress management (CISM) team. The CISM team, who are from the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service and Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, supported shelter workers and first responders in southwest Florida and the Florida Keys.
- The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) supported the Florida Department of Emergency Management’s energy infrastructure fuels support team. MEA organized fuel delivery to gas stations, fueling depots, emergency generators, and critical infrastructure.
- The Howard County Office of Emergency Management conducted volunteer and donations management assistance in the Florida State Emergency Operations Center.