MDEM Newsroom - Page 24 MDEM Newsroom
Maryland’s Request for a Major Disaster Declaration following January Winter Storm is Approved
March 4th, 2016Listen to audio of this release here.
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (March 4, 2016) — Maryland has been informed that the state’s recent request for a major disaster declaration has been approved following the January 2016 blizzard. On February 19, Governor Larry Hogan sent a formal letter to President Barack Obama requesting a federal declaration for the State of Maryland as a result of that winter storm. By granting the declaration, federal assistance will be made available to communities in Maryland through state and local agencies and public safety partners that served them during the storm.
“I am pleased that the federal government granted my request for a disaster declaration after a historic blizzard that affected so many of us in January,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Federal aid made available to Maryland and our local communities will supplement state and local recovery efforts that have been ongoing since the storm.”
The decision for a disaster declaration comes after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), and local jurisdictions throughout the state jointly conducted damage assessments last month. In addition to the state, the following local jurisdictions are included in the declaration and are eligible for aid: Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Queen Anne’s, Washington, and Worcester Counties and the City of Baltimore.
Governor Hogan has designated MEMA as the state coordinating agency for the declaration.
“MEMA worked closely with FEMA and local jurisdictions to assess damages and costs caused by the January winter storm,” said Executive Director Russell Strickland. “We will continue to work together to apply this federal assistance to repair damaged infrastructure and provide relief to public safety services. MEMA is committed to ensuring that state and local governments and communities are able to effectively recover from this event and that they are ready to respond to the next disaster.”
Severe Weather Possible for Maryland this Afternoon and Evening
February 24th, 2016Maryland Residents Should Prepare for High Winds, Heavy Rain and Possible Tornadoes
Listen to audio of this release here.
REISTERSTOWN, Md. (February 24, 2016) — A line of severe storms are forecast to quickly travel into Maryland today. Strong thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible for parts of Maryland this afternoon. Additional threats could include damaging winds, flooding and power outages as part of this storm system.
The most severe weather is expected to occur this afternoon and evening. If a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is issued by the National Weather Service, residents should take appropriate actions, including sheltering in a safe place indoors on the lowest level of a building away from exterior walls and windows.
“This line of potentially dangerous storms is quickly approaching Maryland,” said Maryland Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Russell Strickland. “Residents are encouraged to follow their local weather sources in order to be aware of the hazards in the area. Make sure that your neighbors, friends, and family are also aware of the situation.”
In addition, residents should consider taking the following actions prior to and during severe storms:
- Keep communications devices charged so that you will have a way to follow weather forecasts and local emergency information.
- Stay indoors and stay away from windows and glass doors.
- During a tornado warning, if you are in a structure, go to the lowest level of the building. If there is no basement go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level away from the corners, windows, doors and outside walls.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.
- Know who to contact in the case of a power outage.
Residents can find additional preparedness information on MEMA’s website at mema.maryland.gov. The agency will also be posting updated information on social media. You can follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMAor on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.
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Maryland to Participate in a National Test of the Emergency Alert System Today
February 24th, 2016Minute-long Television and Radio Message to Occur February 24 at 2:20 P.M.
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REISTERSTOWN, Md. (February 24, 2016) — Maryland will be one of twenty-two states participating in a national test of the Emergency Alert System today at 2:20 P.M. (Eastern). The messaging and style of the test will be similar to the regular monthly test message of the EAS, but, is being conducted in order to test and assess the readiness for distribution of a national-level message. Residents can expect to hear and see the following on radio and television stations this afternoon: “This is a national test of the Emergency Alert System. This is only a test.”
This test is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). According to FEMA, “Public safety officials need to be sure that in times of an emergency or disaster they have methods and systems that will deliver urgent alerts and warnings to the public when needed. Periodic testing of public alert and warning systems is a way to assess the operational readiness of the infrastructure for distribution of a national message and determine what improvements in technologies need to be made.”
More information on the Public Alert and Warning System and Wireless Emergency Alerts is available at www.fema.gov/ipaws orwww.ready.gov/alerts.
In addition to the national test in which Maryland participated, the State conducted its regularly scheduled monthly test earlier this morning.
Governor Larry Hogan Requests Federal Disaster Declaration in Response to Historic January Winter Storm
February 19th, 2016Click here for audio of this release.
ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 19, 2016) — Governor Larry Hogan today requested that President Barack Obama declare a Presidential Disaster Declaration for the State of Maryland as a result of the winter storm that affected the state beginning on January 22, 2016. An approved disaster declaration would bring federal assistance to communities in Maryland through state and local agencies and public safety partners that served them during the storm.
“We are requesting a disaster declaration in order to provide Maryland with all assistance available following the historic snowstorm we experienced last month,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Throughout the storm, our administration and state agencies effectively and efficiently responded and Marylanders used common sense and stayed off the roads. Now we are taking steps to recover and ensure we are ready for any future storms.”
Maryland was severely impacted by this winter storm with many areas seeing historic snowfall totals, high winds, and freezing temperatures. Governor Hogan implemented a state of emergency and government agencies coordinated public safety actions and snow removal through the State Emergency Operations Center at the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).
Governor Hogan designated MEMA as the state coordinating agency for the request. MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland had previously sent a letter of intent for Maryland to pursue federal disaster assistance and to request that FEMA begin the coordination for joint damage assessments. This process occurred from February 2 through 17.
“MEMA worked closely with local governments and FEMA to jointly assess damages and costs incurred and initial estimates have validated the significant impact of this storm,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland.
CONTACT:
Chas Eby, [email protected], 410-274-6690
Ed McDonough, [email protected], 410-446-3333
Emily Allen, [email protected], 410-504-4437
MEMA 24/7 phone line: 410-517-3600
Next Winter Weather Storm Arriving in Maryland Later Today
February 8th, 2016Tuesday Morning Commute Could be Slippery, Slow, and Dangerous
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REISTERSTOWN, Md. (February 8, 2016) — Another round of snow is headed toward Maryland today. Forecasters are expecting precipitation to begin in western Maryland Monday afternoon and then head east throughout the evening. The National Weather Service is currently forecasting approximately a half foot of snow in central and northern Maryland. Western Maryland is more likely to receive additional snow totaling more than six inches while southern Maryland and the eastern shore will likely get less. Even with some uncertainty in the forecast, it is increasingly likely that Tuesday morning’s commute could be slippery, slow, and dangerous.
“With another snow system on its way to Maryland, it’s important for our citizens to remember that any amount of snow or ice on the roads can make conditions dangerous,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Our agencies are busy preparing for any amount of snow that we might experience – state highway crews are pre-treating roads and will be fully ready to clear them if accumulation builds throughout the night. We are encouraging motorists to remain cautious and to use common sense if they need to travel.”
According to the National Weather Service, the location of the rain-snow line is unclear. This will dictate which areas of Maryland receive snow, rain, or a wintry mix.
“Though there is some uncertainty in the current forecast, it is important that Marylanders be aware of the incoming winter storm, follow local weather forecast offices and news, and communicate with their friends and families before, during, and after winter storms,” said Maryland Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Russell Strickland.
In addition, residents should consider taking the following actions prior to any winter storm:
- Keep communications devices charged so that you will have a way follow weather forecasts and local emergency information.
- Avoid traveling during snowstorms. If you must travel, make sure to have a 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 times.
- Make sure pets are not kept outside without shelter in cold and snowy weather and be aware that salt and other ice melting materials may hurt animal’s paws.
- Know who to contact in the case of a power outage.
Residents can find additional winter preparedness information on MEMA’s website at mema.maryland.gov. The Agency will also be posting updated information on social media. You can follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.
Governor Larry Hogan Ends State Of Emergency
January 29th, 2016Governor Larry Hogan Ends State Of Emergency
Maryland Emergency Management Agency Submits Letter of Intent to FEMA to Pursue Disaster Assistance
January 25th, 2016REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 25, 2016) — MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland has sent a letter of intent for the State of Maryland to pursue federal disaster assistance and to request that FEMA begin the coordination for joint damage assessments following the winter storm that covered Maryland in snow this past weekend. While response efforts, including snow removal, are continuing, Maryland agencies are also focusing on a comprehensive recovery effort.
“Our administration is committed to accelerating the recovery process in every way possible following this historic snowstorm,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I have directed MEMA to work with the federal government and seek all available assistance to support our public safety partners and the communities they serve.”
Federal assistance could potentially be made available through the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. MEMA will work closely with local governments and FEMA to jointly assess damages and costs incurred due to the storm.
“Reaching out to our federal partners is one step MEMA is taking as part of a comprehensive recovery effort following this unprecedented winter storm,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “We will also be working closely with local officials, businesses, and other State agencies to assess damages caused by the storm and decide how to move forward.”
Roads Still Dangerous as State Recovers from Historic Storm
January 24th, 2016MANY ROADS STILL DANGEROUS AS STATE RECOVERS FROM HISTORIC SNOWSTORM
MEMA TO ASSIST IN DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS AND COORDINATE RECOVERY EFFORTS
REISTERSTOWN, MD (January 24, 2016) – Even though the snow has ended across Maryland, many roads remain snow covered and dangerous. Maryland residents should continue to avoid all non-essential travel at least through tonight so State and local snow removal crews can try to clear secondary roads, rural roads and neighborhood streets.
“The worst of Winter Storm Jonas is now behind us, but getting back to business-as-usual after a storm of this magnitude is going to take a considerable amount of time and patience,” said Governor Hogan. “Our State will continue to coordinate all available resources in the coming days as we move from a response mode to recovery mode. I urge Marylanders to continue to stay indoors and off the roads, allowing our emergency workers to do their jobs.”
MEMA continues to coordinate the use of State resources in support of local emergency managers and first responders across Maryland. MEMA will also focus on recovering from this storm. The Agency will assist in damage assessments and coordinate the overall recovery effort.
“This historic storm brought an unprecedented amount of snow to Maryland,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “MEMA will be taking every action possible to help facilitate community recovery. This includes seeking assistance from the federal government.”
Many people may be starting their own recovery efforts at home. For those shoveling snow today or tomorrow, make sure to do some stretching to warm up, take frequent breaks and, stay hydrated. Even though it is cold, it is easy to become dehydrated in dry air, especially when dressed to keep warm.
Finally, continue to check on the welfare of relatives, neighbors and friends who are vulnerable. It still is very dangerous for them to get around, and they may have trouble stocking up on food, water and other necessities.
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.
Marylanders Urged to Continue to Stay Off Roads, Prepare for Power Outages
January 23rd, 2016MARYLANDERS 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.
Motorists Urged to Stay Off Roads Friday Afternoon and Make Preparations
January 22nd, 2016MOTORISTS 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.