MDEM Newsroom - Page 24 MDEM Newsroom

Marylanders Urged to Continue to Stay Off Roads, Prepare for Power Outages

MARYLANDERS URGED TO CONTINUE TO STAY OFF ROADS TO HELP PLOWING CREWS, PREPARE FOR POSSIBLE POWER OUTAGES

MEMA CONTINUES TO COORDINATE RESOURCES, ASSIST LOCAL JURISDICTIONS

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 23, 2016) — Snow continues to fall throughout Maryland and wind gusts have picked up in some areas of the state. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency urges residents to stay off the roads so highway crews can continue plowing operations.

As of noon, power outage numbers remained relatively low in Maryland, with less than 1,500 customers without power statewide after spiking to approximately 10,000 early Saturday morning. However, as strong winds and heavy snowfall continues, residents are urged to keep cell phones, tablets and other devices charged and be prepared for possible extended power outages.

“I want to thank Marylanders for the common sense they have shown thus far,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I want to urge people to continue to stay off of the roads unless travel is absolutely essential. It is still very dangerous out there and stalled and abandoned vehicles make it that much harder for snow plow operators. Your safety is our top priority.”

If you must drive, please stay far back from snow plows. While it may be inconvenient to be stuck behind a snow plow or a multi-unit snowplow “train,” trying to pass is dangerous and the roads in front of the plows will be snow covered.

The strong winds also could create some coastal flooding issues along the Atlantic coast and portions of the lower Chesapeake Bay. Residents are urged to follow trusted local weather forecasters to get updates on conditions in their area.

“I cannot stress enough the need to check on the welfare of relatives, friends and neighbors who are vulnerable,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “We still have at least 12 hours of storm conditions ahead of us. The best way to get through this is if we all work together and communicate.”

MEMA continues to coordinate the use of State resources in support of local emergency managers and first responders across the state. The Maryland National Guard is working in many counties in Maryland to help law enforcement and emergency medical personnel to respond in high-clearance vehicles.

In addition to staying off the roads and monitoring the weather and power outages, residents should take the following actions:

• Keep devices charged so you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information and be able to contact family and friends.
• Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated.
• Avoid travel. If you must drive, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter, or sand for traction, and extra drinks and snacks in case you get stuck in traffic. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
• Check on friends, neighbors, and relatives, especially the elderly or vulnerable residents who may have trouble staying warm or maneuvering on icy surfaces.
• Residents living near coastal areas should be prepared to experience moderate coastal flooding and waves due to the high wind.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutages.aspx
• Make sure pets are not exposed to the severe weather. Also remember that salt and other deicing materials can irritate their paws.

MEMA will be regularly updating their website with winter preparedness information, traffic, weather, and power outage alerts. Residents can find all of this information at mema.maryland.gov. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.

Tags: blizzard, preparedness, snow

Motorists Urged to Stay Off Roads Friday Afternoon and Make Preparations

MOTORISTS URGED TO STAY OFF ROADS FRIDAY AFTERNOON AND MAKE PREPARATIONS AS SEVERE WINTER STORM APPROACHES MARYLAND

MEMA IS ACTIVELY COORDINATING RESOURCES AHEAD OF POTENTIAL BLIZZARD CONDITIONS

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 22, 2016) — A high-impact winter storm continues to head directly towards Maryland. Snowfall is expected to start early Friday afternoon in parts of the State and the National Weather Service predicts that the height of the storm will begin soon after the snow’s onset. Areas of Maryland could experience blizzard conditions that include wind gusts and blowing snow. Motorists are urged to stay off the roads as soon as snowfall begins if at all possible. Driving will be hazardous almost immediately after the storm’s onset due to the fast rate of snowfall.

Governor Larry Hogan has signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency in order to activate and coordinate all available State resources. A state of emergency is also an indicator to residents that this will be a significant winter storm and that they should take precautions.

“Now is the time for Marylanders to stay at home and off the roads,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “This is the safe choice. It will also allow emergency services vehicles to maneuver and road crews to begin the long process of clearing highways and streets.”

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency has been coordinating resources in order to manage incidents that could arise due to the storm. This includes working with local officials to mobilize high-clearance vehicles, emergency supplies, and personnel in areas and communities that could be affected most by the storm.

“This heavy, wet snow coupled with windy conditions could create additional problems, such as towering snow banks and power outages,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “The public also has a part to play in storm preparedness and safety. It is essential that residents be prepared to shelter in their homes, charge all communications devices now, and check on family and friends throughout this snowstorm.”

In addition to staying off the roads and monitoring the weather and power outages, residents should take the following actions:

• Keep devices charged so you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information and be able to contact family and friends.
• Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated. If snow is accumulating on your rooftop, consider removing snow if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid travel after the snow starts. If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter, or sand for traction, and extra drinks and snacks in case you get stuck in traffic. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
• Check on friends, neighbors, and relatives, especially the elderly or vulnerable residents who may have trouble staying warm or maneuvering on icy surfaces.
• Residents living near coastal areas should be prepared to experience moderate coastal flooding and waves due to the high wind.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutages.aspx

MEMA will be regularly updating their website with winter preparedness information, traffic, weather, and power outage alerts. Residents can find all of this information at mema.maryland.gov. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.

What does a “State of Emergency” mean?

What does a “State of Emergency” mean?

In preparation for the upcoming snowstorm, Governor Larry Hogan has asked State agencies to launch a coordinated effort to keep Marylanders safe and informed in the upcoming days. Earlier today, Governor Hogan signed an Executive Order declaring a state of emergency in Maryland beginning Friday, January 22 at 7a.m. 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 has been 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, like the National Guard, 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 non-essential 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 prohibit employers to close. We ask that all employers consider employee safety at all times.

Can I drive on the roads?

***UPDATE 8:40PM 1/23/2016: Governor Hogan Closes I-70 and I-270 to Safely Clear the Interstates of Snow. Motorists Encouraged to Stay Off All Roads. Click here to read more.
If you have questions, please direct them to the Maryland Department of Transportation.

Tags: FAQs, maryland, MD, state of emergency, What is a State of Emergency?

Maryland Bracing for Significant Winter Storm Beginning Friday Afternoon

STATE OF EMERGENCY TO TAKE EFFECT FRIDAY MORNING IN ORDER TO ACTIVELY PREPARE FOR
HEAVY SNOW, HIGH WIND, AND COLD TEMPERATURES

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 20, 2016) — The high-impact winter storm system heading toward Maryland is forecast to bring heavy snow, winds, and cold temperatures to the entire State. The storm is expected to start Friday afternoon and the National Weather Service expects the height of the storm to begin soon after the snow starts. Portions of the State could experience blizzard conditions that include wind gusts and blowing snow. In addition to potential blizzard conditions, the National Weather Service has indicated that minor to moderate coastal flooding could occur. Due to this, Governor Larry Hogan has signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency beginning Friday morning. A state of emergency allows the Governor to deploy resources and make decisions in order to promote public safety during the storm and enable a full-scale response. It is also an indicator to residents that this could be a significant winter storm and that they should take precautions.

Motorists are urged to stay off the roads during the height of the storm. Driving could be dangerous soon after the snow begins.

“Our state is taking every precaution – coordinating all available resources – to prepare to clear roads, manage incidents, and recover from this storm,” said Governor Hogan. “We urge all Marylanders to take action now to prepare, before this severe weather strikes, with the knowledge that our state will do everything it can to respond quickly, effectively and efficiently to this major storm event.”

MEMA has been working with local officials to ensure they have the resources necessary to manage incidents caused by the storm and remove snow efficiently. The Agency has also hosted conference calls with the National Weather Service, state agencies, local emergency management offices, and other partners to coordinate response efforts.

“It is essential that residents prepare now, stay informed, and stay off the roads after the snow begins,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “MEMA has been coordinating State resources to deal with problems that the significant snowfall may cause, but, motorists can avoid delays and serious incidents by avoiding travel.”

In addition to staying off the roads and monitoring the weather and power outages, residents should take the following actions:

• Keep devices charged so you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information and be able to contact family and friends.
• Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated. If snow is accumulating on your rooftop, consider removing snow if it is safe to do so.
• If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter, or sand for traction, and extra drinks and snacks in case you get stuck in traffic. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
• Check on friends, neighbors, and relatives, especially the elderly or vulnerable residents who may have trouble staying warm or maneuvering on icy surfaces.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutages.aspx

Additionally, 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.

Tags: Cold, governor hogan, maryland, MD, snow, state of emergency, Wind

Governor Larry Hogan Signs Executive Order Declaring State of Emergency in Maryland in Anticipation of Historic Snowstorm

Click here to read the entire Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency.

Tags: blizzard, governor hogan, ice, maryland, snow, state of emergency

Weekend Winter Storm Heading Toward Maryland

Accumulating Snow, High Winds, and Cold Temperatures Likely for Entire State Beginning Friday

Click here for audio of this release.

 REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 20, 2016) — A low-pressure winter storm system is heading toward Maryland and will likely bring heavy snow, high winds, and cold temperatures to the State. The storm is expected to begin Friday with the heaviest precipitation occurring Friday afternoon through Saturday. The National Weather Service expects most of the State to be affected and has already issued a blizzard watch for central and southern Maryland and a winter storm watch for western Maryland beginning Friday at noon and going through Saturday evening. In addition to potential blizzard conditions which correlate to gusty winds and low visibility, the National Weather Service has indicated that minor to moderate coastal flooding could occur.

 Residents should make preparations now and are urged to stay off the roads during the height of the storm.

 “State agencies are coordinating all available resources to prepare to clear roads and manage incidents that may be caused by this significant storm but Marylanders should also take action now,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Before the storm hits, make sure you have supplies at home and communications devices charged. Be a good neighbor—check on relatives, friends, and those who may be more vulnerable to cold and a big winter storm.”

 MEMA and other state agencies are preparing to assist local responders with any issues related to the storm. MEMA has hosted conference calls with the National Weather Service, state agencies, local emergency management offices, and other partners to coordinate response efforts.

 “This has the potential to be a serious storm affecting a wide area,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “We are coordinating with State and local officials to ensure that any area that is significantly impacted by this storm will be able to respond effectively and promote resident safety.”

 In addition to staying off the roads and monitoring the weather and power outages, residents should take the following actions:

• Keep devices charged so you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information and be able to contact family and friends.
• Be cautious shoveling snow or ice to avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks and keep hydrated. If snow is accumulating on your rooftop, consider removing snow if it is safe to do so.
• If you must travel, make sure to have car chargers, kitty litter, or sand for traction, and extra drinks and snacks in case you get stuck in traffic. Let friends or family know of your travel route and expected arrival time.
• Check on friends, neighbors, and relatives, especially the elderly or vulnerable residents who may have trouble staying warm or maneuvering on icy surfaces.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found here: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/PowerOutages.aspx

Additionally, 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.

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Maryland Home- and Business Owners Affected by Heavy Rains and Flooding in and around Frederick County

MEMA Encourages Residents with Damages from September 29 Storms to Apply for Low-interest Loans

Click here for audio of this release.

REISTERSTOWN, MD (December 10, 2015) – The Maryland Emergency Management Agency is encouraging businesses and residents in Frederick County and adjacent counties affected by heavy rains and flooding on September 29, 2015, to apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“Some areas in Frederick County and other parts of North Central Maryland received heavy, localized damage during this storm,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “These loans have attractive interest rates that might allow those affected by the storm to recover from the damages.”

SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet made the loans available in response to a letter from Governor Larry Hogan on December 3, requesting a disaster declaration by the SBA. The declaration covers Frederick County and the adjacent counties of Carroll, Howard, Montgomery and Washington Counties in Maryland; Adams and Franklin Counties in Pennsylvania; and Loudoun County in Virginia.

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

Businesses and nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

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

SBA’s customer service representatives are available at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about the disaster loan program and help individuals complete their applications. The Center is located in the following community and is open as indicated:

Frederick County
City of Frederick – Department of Public Works
111 Airport Drive – Room 4
Frederick, MD 21701
Opens: Thursday, Dec. 10 from Noon to 5 p.m.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday
Closes: Thursday, Dec. 17 at 4 p.m.

“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 Frank Skaggs, director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East in Atlanta.

Interest rates are as low as 4 percent for businesses, 2.625 percent for nonprofit organizations, and 1.875 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 be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes. Some improvements now include a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Individuals and 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 www.sba.gov/disaster. 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 Feb. 8, 2016.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is Sept. 9, 2016.

MEMA CONTACTS:
Ed McDonough, 410-446-3333 or
[email protected]
Emily Allen, 410-504-4437 or
[email protected]
Chas Eby, 410-274-6690 or
[email protected]

SBA CONTACT: Michael Lampton, 404-331-0333,
[email protected]

For more information about the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, please visit www.mema.maryland.gov

For more information about the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, visit our website at www.sba.gov/disaster

Small Business Administration Reopens Application Filing Period for Hurricane Sandy Survivors on lower Eastern Shore

MEMA notes eligible residents and business owners can apply in-person or online

REISTERSTOWN, MD (December 4, 2015) — Businesses and residents on the lower Eastern Shore that were affected by Superstorm Sandy in 2012 have more time to request low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency and the SBA announced jointly today. The new deadline to submit applications for physical damage and economic injury losses is Dec. 1, 2016.

“It’s not often that those affected by a disaster get another opportunity to apply for assistance three years after the event,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland.  “If you live or own a business in the four counties on Maryland’s lower Eastern Shore and suffered losses from Sandy, and for whatever reason decided not to apply for a loan, you have an opportunity to reconsider. The loan rates are very low and could help those still struggling to get back on their feet.”

SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet reopened the filing period for SBA disaster loans effective Dec. 2, following the recently approved Recovery Improvements for Small Entities (RISE) After Disaster Act of 2015.  This Act allows those affected by Superstorm Sandy another opportunity to apply for low-interest disaster loans to recover from the effects of storm.  

Because of the way the SBA structures their disaster declarations, the area is covered by two different declarations. Somerset County is the primary county for one declaration, and Worcester County is the primary jurisdiction in the other. Because contiguous counties are also eligible for SBA assistance, the following counties also qualify: Dorchester and Wicomico in Maryland, Sussex in Delaware and Accomack in Virginia.

SBA’s customer service representatives will be available at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about the disaster loan program and help individuals complete their applications.  The Center is located in the following community and is open as indicated:

Somerset County
McCready Hospital Outpatient Center-Outpatient Entrance
201 Hall Highway
Crisfield, MD 21817
Opens: Tuesday, December 8, 2015, 8 a.m.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays  Closed: Saturday and Sunday

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.  Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private non-profit organizations may be eligible for 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 of up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters also are eligible for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

Interest rates are as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3 percent for nonprofit organizations, and 1.688 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 be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes which are improvements to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Businesses and individuals may obtain loan applications or information 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 e-mailing [email protected]. Applications can be downloaded at www.sba.gov/disaster. Completed applications should be returned to the Disaster Loan Outreach Center or mailed to:

U.S. Small Business Administration
Processing and Disbursement Center
14925 Kingsport Road
Fort Worth, TX 76155

The deadline to file for physical property damage and economic injury is Dec. 1, 2016.

MEMA COTACTS:
Ed McDonough, 410-446-3333 or [email protected]
Emily Allen, 410-504-4437 or em[email protected]
Chas Eby, 410-274-6690 or [email protected]

SBA CONTACT: Michael Lampton, 404-331-0333, [email protected]

For more information about the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, please visit www.mema.maryland.gov

For more information about the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, visit our website at www.sba.gov/disaster.

Click here for audio of this release.

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency Offers Cold Weather Tips and a Winter Preparedness Video

WITH WINTER APPROACHING, DECEMBER IS THE RIGHT TIME TO PREPARE FOR SNOWSTORMS AND COLD WEATHER

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (December 1, 2015) — The arrival of the holiday season is the right time to make sure you are prepared for winter weather. No matter what part of the State you live in, the winter season brings the potential for cold weather and slippery roads and sidewalks.

“It is difficult to predict exactly what type of winter weather will affect Maryland in any given year, but history shows us that most of the State will have to deal with some bad weather over the next few months,” said Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Executive Director Russ Strickland. “It’s better to make preparations now so you can avoid the last minute rush for snow shovels, salt, and other winter essentials.”

When cold weather hits, it is important to check on the welfare of relatives, friends, and neighbors who may be particularly vulnerable to cold, snow, and ice – this may include the elderly and those with access and functional needs. It is also important to make sure your vehicles are ready for winter travel and that your pets will be ready for bad weather.

Follow a trusted weather source, such as the National Weather Service and local news, to be aware of any predicted frozen precipitation or severe cold. In addition, MEMA recommends taking the following actions prior to the winter season:

• Build a home preparedness kit that includes winter supplies such as snow shovels, ice melting products, extra warm clothes and blankets, flashlights, and batteries
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home and set the thermostat to no lower than 55° Fahrenheit
• Check and winterize your vehicle, including all fluids, wiper blades, lights, and systems before the winter season begins. Have a car emergency kit in your vehicle
• Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
• ID your pet with up-to-date name tags and rabies tags; include your cell phone number on the tag

In addition to these tips, MEMA has recently released a winter preparedness video on our YouTube site: www.youtube.com/user/StateMarylandMEMA. Additional information about winter preparedness can be found on our website at mema.maryland.gov, Twitter feed @MDMEMA, Facebook page and Instagram.

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

CONTACT: Chas Eby, [email protected], 410-274-6690
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
Emily Allen, [email protected], 410-504-4437

***An audio version of this press release is here.

Tags: Cold, ice, maryland, MD, MDMEMA, MdWx, mema, preparedness, snow, winter, Winter Weather Preparedness

Governor Hogan, Maryland Officials Participate in Emergency Preparedness Exercise to Prepare for Winter

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (November 24, 2015) — Governor Larry Hogan hosted an exercise for top officials in his administration at the Maryland Emergency Management Agency today. The discussion and drill, which focused on a blizzard scenario, boosted state agencies’ ability to collaborate on a variety of issues that arise during winter storms and related emergencies.

“Maryland is susceptible to a wide range of natural hazards, including winter storms, hurricanes, and flooding,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I’ve directed my administration to work together before the first snowstorm this season to ensure that State government can effectively respond to any storm or emergency this winter.”

Over twenty-five leaders from state agencies and offices participated in today’s event. This exercise is the first in a series of drills directed by the Hogan administration related to emergency management, disaster preparedness, and homeland security.

“It is essential that the State be able to support local jurisdictions’ response to any incident, including severe winter storms,” said Maryland Emergency Management Agency’s Executive Director Russell Strickland. “This series of drills will raise the State’s ability to be agile in the face of any emergency and ensure resident safety.”

For additional information on emergency management in Maryland and winter safety tips, residents can visit mema.maryland.gov.