MDEM Newsroom - - Page 9 MDEM Newsroom

Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill Set for Thursday

MEMA Encourages Marylanders to Participate

REISTERSTOWN, MD (October 14, 2020) – The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is encouraging Maryland residents to participate in the The Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill occurring across the county on October 15 at 10:15 a.m. Although the current pandemic has changed the way many Marylanders accomplish day-to-day activities, we can still participate in the Great Southeast ShakeOut 2020 earthquake drill from home, work, or school.

“Even though many of us are focused on the continuing pandemic, we still need to remain prepared for other hazards, such as earthquakes,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Many of us are working or going to school remotely, so it makes sense to practice what to do if an earthquake hits when we are at home.”

Powerful earthquakes are not common in the Mid-Atlantic Region, but the August 23, 2011 tremor near Mineral, VA, reminded us that we are not immune from the effects of an earthquake. That is why MEMA is joining the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to promote Earthquake Preparedness this month and is encouraging everyone to take part in the drill.

One of the most frightening and destructive phenomena of nature is a severe earthquake and its terrible after effects.  Earthquakes can happen at any time of the year and at any time during the day. You could be at work, school, or at home. It is impossible to predict when or where an earthquake will occur, so it is important that you and your family are prepared ahead of time.

In the Mid-Atlantic region, earthquakes typically do not cause major structural damage, so evacuating a building is not recommended. You should get under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture to protect yourself from falling debris.

On October 15 at 10:15 a.m. you are asked to drop, cover, and hold on for earthquake preparedness.

• DROP to the ground (before the earthquake drops you!),
• Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table, and
• HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops.

This year’s Great Shakeout comes with it some considerations related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic including:

• Where will you all be for your drill?
• Will your family be together, or some at work, school or home? (Consider video-conferencing!)
• How will you incorporate COVID-19 health and safety guidelines into your activity?
• Is it better to have everyone participate all at once, or perhaps in staggered (or even repeated) dates and times?

For more information about the ShakeOut Drill during a pandemic, please visit ShakeOut.org/covid19.

More information about earthquake safety and preparedness can be found at Shakeout.org (click on the link for the Southeast Region). Information on quakes and other hazards is available at mema.maryland.gov,  Ready.gov or the Spanish-language web site Listo.gov.

###

CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

MEMA Secures Over $2.5 Million to Reduce Risks of Hazards, Disasters

Mitigation Grants to Fund Projects that Continue Building Resilience in Maryland

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 30, 2020)— The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) announced today that it will receive $2,612,302 in federal Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) and Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) grants. MEMA will distribute these funds to local jurisdictions throughout Maryland that are at risk for or have been adversely affected by natural disasters. The grants originate from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) and fund specific projects that have been identified by communities as important to saving lives and preventing loss of property.

“These mitigation grants are an important step in reducing the risk posed by hazards and disasters,” said Russell Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Our vision to shape a resilient Maryland where communities thrive necessitates that we consistently prepare for and mitigate against future emergencies. The funding for these projects will help accomplish that.”

A wide array of public safety projects for residents, their homes, and businesses are included. On one hand, FMA grants will fund projects like providing advance assistance for the development of flood mitigation strategies for the City of Cambridge, and developing the City of Annapolis flood mitigation plan. PDM grants, on the other hand, will fund other infrastructure projects as well as hazard mitigation plan updates for communities in Wicomico, Cecil, Talbot, and Dorchester Counties.

Funding of these projects help align broader state and local mitigation and disaster risk reduction efforts. “Every $1 spent on mitigation saves $6 on costs for response and recovery activities. We are enthusiastic that, in conjunction with these local jurisdictions, we have been awarded funds which will have a profound impact on improving the resilience of the State,” added Strickland.

The following subrecipients and subaward amounts are listed below:

Total Fiscal Year 2019 Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Grants: $342,375.00

• Advance Assistance-Development of Flood Mitigation Strategies for City of Cambridge: $250,000.00
• Dorchester County Flood Mitigation Plan: $30,000.00
• City of Annapolis Flood Mitigation Plan: $31,250.00

Total Fiscal Year 2019 Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Grants: $2,269,927.41

• Wicomico County 2022 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update: $50,000.00
• Cecil County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update: $40,000.00
• Talbot County Hazard Mitigation Plan Update: $50,000.00
• Dorchester County 2022 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan Update: $33,600.00
• Cove Road Acquisition Project – Wicomico County: $251,758.81*
• Home elevation Projects in Somerset, Wicomico County: $357,056
• Advance Assistance for Twin Point Cove Shoreline Resiliency Plan – Dorchester County: $50,000.00
• Crisfield Tide Gates, Culvert Modification and Pumping Stations: $1,379,474.00*

            *Pending final engineering review

Homeowners and businesses wishing to learn more about mitigation funding should contact their local emergency office. Contact information can be found here: mema.maryland.gov/Pages/emmgrs.aspx

NOTE TO MEDIA: MEMA staff will be available to arrange interviews for your article, story or public affairs show. Please contact us at the email below.

###

CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

MEMA Presenta el Programa de Alertas de Texto #MdListo en Español

Se expande #MdReady para llegar mejor a la comunidad hispana antes, durante y después de las emergencias

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (18 de septiembre de 2020) — La Agencia de Manejo de Emergencias de Maryland (MEMA por sus siglas en Inglés) anunció hoy que ha ampliado su programa de alertas de texto existente, #MdReady, en asociación con 211-MD para que los usuarios puedan recibir alertas de texto en español. #MdReady permite a las personas optar por recibir actualizaciones, consejos y alertas sobre COVID-19 y otras amenazas y peligros que afectan o pueden afectar a Maryland. #MdListo es su contraparte en español.

“Con #MdListo podremos llegar a las personas que prefieren las comunicaciones de texto en español”, dijo Russ Strickland, director ejecutivo de MEMA. “Poder tener comunicaciones sólidas es muy importante para nosotros como administradores de emergencias. Poder llegar e involucrar a un segmento creciente de la población de nuestro estado en su idioma preferido es beneficioso para todos.”

Para inscribirse en el programa, envíe un texto con la palabra MdReady (para inglés) o MdListo (para español) al número 898-211. MEMA también les recuerda a los residentes de Maryland que 211-MD tiene traductores en español y otros 180 idiomas listos para ayudar las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana. Puede comunicarse con un representante de 211-MD para obtener ayuda con alimentos, vivienda y refugio, abuso de sustancias y salud mental, de las siguientes maneras:

1. Marque 211
2. Envíe un mensaje de texto con su código postal al 898-211
3. Chatee en línea a través de su sitio web: 211md.org/chat-with-us

MEMA anima a los residentes de Maryland a inscribirse en #MdReady o #MdListo y les recuerda a los residentes que visiten KnowYourZoneMd.com ya que estamos en el pico de la temporada de huracanes.

Para obtener más información sobre la preparación para huracanes, visite MEMA, Ready.gov, el Servicio Meteorológico Nacional y la Cruz Roja Americana.

NOTA PARA LOS MEDIOS: El personal de MEMA estará disponible para concertar entrevistas para su artículo, historia o programa de asuntos públicos. Por favor contáctenos en el correo electrónico a continuación.

###

CONTACTO DE PRENSA:
Jorge E. Castillo: pio.mema@maryland.gov

MEMA Introduces #MdListo Text Alert Program in Spanish

Expands #MdReady to Better Reach Hispanic Community Before, During, and After Emergencies

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 18, 2020) — The Maryland Emergency Management (MEMA) announced today it has expanded its existing text alert program, #MdReady, in partnership with 211-MD so users can receive text alerts in Spanish.  #MdReady allows people to opt in to receive updates, tips, and alerts about COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland. #MdListo is its counterpart in Spanish.

“With #MdListo we will be able to reach individuals who prefer text communications in Spanish,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Strong communications is important to us as emergency managers. To be able to reach and engage a growing segment of our state’s population in their preferred language is a win-win.”

To opt into the program text MdReady (for English) or MdListo (for Spanish) to the number 898-211. MEMA also reminds Maryland residents that 211-MD has translators in Spanish and 180 other languages ready to assist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You can reach a 211-MD representative to get help with food, housing and shelter, substance abuse, and mental health, in the following ways:

1. Dial 211
2. Text your zip code to 898-211
3. Chat online through their website: 211md.org/chat-with-us

MEMA encourages Marylanders to sign up for #MdReady or #MdListo and reminds residents to visit KnowYourZoneMd.com as we are in the peak of hurricane season. For more information about hurricane preparedness, please visit MEMA, Ready.gov, the National Weather Service, and the American Red Cross.

NOTE TO MEDIA: MEMA staff will be available to arrange interviews for your article, story or public affairs show. Please contact us at the email below.

###

CONTACT:
Maryland State Emergency Operations Center PIO: pio.mema@maryland.gov

Governor Hogan Requests Presidential Disaster Declaration Following Damages Caused by Tropical Storm Isaias

State Agencies, Three Counties Would be Eligible for Reimbursements

Reisterstown, MD (September 3, 2020) — Governor Larry Hogan today requested the White House issue a Major Disaster Declaration to assist communities impacted by Tropical Storm Isaias in August. The request, made through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Public Assistance disaster relief program, would provide financial assistance to Calvert, Dorchester and St. Mary’s counties and state agencies for repairs to public infrastructure, and reimburse for measures taken to prepare for and respond to last month’s storm.

“Tropical Storm Isaias caused significant damage in much of Maryland, especially in Southern Maryland and on the Eastern Shore,” said Gov. Hogan. “Federal funding will help state and local agencies recover from the impacts of the storm. These funds are especially important because the COVID-19 pandemic has had drastic impacts to local and state budgets.”

Because of the dire economic conditions in Maryland as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, Gov. Hogan is asking the President to reimburse state and local agencies for 100 percent of eligible response and recovery efforts, rather than the typical local cost share which agencies simply cannot afford. The money will be used to reimburse costs of debris removal, the repair or replacement of uninsured public infrastructure and emergency protective measures, such as operating Emergency Operations Centers and first response. The state also is requesting hazard mitigation funding which will allow communities to make investments to lessen the impacts of future disasters.

“Isaias spawned 10 tornadoes in Maryland and also caused extensive flood and wind damage,” said Maryland Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Russ Strickland. “Many of the responding agencies have already been stretched thin because of the COVID-19 pandemic, so federal assistance is especially important.”

If the President grants a Major Disaster Declaration, state agencies, local governments, and certain non-profit organizations will be eligible to submit the cost of operations and projects to FEMA for reimbursement. State and local officials have been coordinating with FEMA since August to develop a complete picture of the extent of damage. While assessments continue, officials believe damages exceed the federal threshold for Maryland and the counties included in the request.

For more information about the Disaster Declaration process, please view this fact sheet.

###

CONTACT:

Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333

Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518

24/7 line: 877-636-2872

MEMA Says “Thank You” to Marylanders for Keeping State Safe

Preparedness Month is a Reminder that Hurricane Season is Hitting Peak, Other Hazards Loom

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (September 1, 2020) — September is Preparedness Month and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) wants to take this opportunity to thank our residents for their efforts to help keep our state safe and resilient. Whether it is wearing a mask and distancing yourself, following weather events or not driving through standing water, we truly appreciate your efforts.

“This has been a challenging year for all of us,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “I could not be more proud of the way my fellow Marylanders have responded, not only to the pandemic but for their general preparation for all threats and hazards. That spirit will serve us well as the 2020 Hurricane Season continues.“

This is shaping up to be one of the busiest seasons on record, and later summer-early fall is usually the busiest part of the season in the Mid-Atlantic region. It is vital that Marylanders remain vigilant and be prepared.

It is important to remember that COVID-19 means there will be changes to evacuation and sheltering plans and that your emergency supply kit needs to have extra items because of the pandemic. If you live, work or visit areas along the ocean, the Chesapeake Bay or its tributaries, it also is important to understand Maryland’s Know Your Zone hurricane evacuation plan. To learn more about the program and hurricane preparedness in Maryland, visit KnowYourZoneMD.com.

But pandemics and hurricanes are not the only hazards in Maryland. Flooding is the  most common hazard in Maryland, and tornadoes, severe storms, dangerous heat, and severe winter storms are among the other potential hazards. We encourage all Marylanders to remain vigilant for all hazards that might affect you.

As part of Preparedness Month, MEMA, in conjunction with the Maryland Department of Health, and other agencies, will host various online live events to engage with Marylanders. Follow MEMA on Facebook or Twitter (@MDMEMA) to join these opportunities.

You can learn more about being prepared for any hazard from MEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Weather Service or the American Red Cross.

###

CONTACT:
Jorge Castillo, jorge.castillo@maryland.gov, 443-381-3518
Ed McDonough, ed.mcdonough@maryland.gov, 410-446-3333
24/7 line: 877-636-2872

MEMA Expands Public Service Announcement Campaign as Maryland Prepares to Enter the Peak of Hurricane Season

Urges Marylanders to Take Preparations Seriously Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (August 21, 2020) — Know. Plan. Act. These are the actions Maryland Emergency Management (MEMA) officials are urging Marylanders to take as the Mid-Atlantic region prepares to enter the peak of hurricane season––one that has already broken several records, including a record 11 named storms thus far, with nine tropical storms and two hurricanes.

The Public Service Announcement (PSA) campaign launched through social media and digital billboards days before Isaias impacted Maryland and will be expanding to TV, radio, cable, and other mass media beginning today. The campaign underscores the importance of hurricane preparedness during COVID-19 and knowing if you are in, near, or traveling to, an evacuation zone by visiting KnowYourZoneMd.com.

“I urge all Marylanders to be proactive and take preparations for hurricane season seriously,” said Maryland Governor Larry Hogan. “Isaias showed us the kind of damage a tropical storm can do to our communities. All Marylanders need to be extra vigilant this hurricane season due to extra precautions that may need to occur due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The time to prepare is now.”

Isaias hit Maryland in early August, spawning 9 tornadoes on the Eastern Shore and in Southern Maryland, causing one death and several injuries and likely causing millions of dollars in damage.

NOAA’s updated 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook  forecasts that an “above-normal hurricane season is very likely, with a significant possibility of the season being extremely active.” Specifically, the outlook indicates an 85% chance of an above-normal season.

“There is a possibility according to NOAA that we will see a much more active hurricane season than what we are used to as Marylanders,” said MEMA’s Executive Director, Russ Strickland. “All it takes is one storm to change your life. That is why the State of Maryland, MEMA, local Emergency Management Directors, and our partners, like the American Red Cross, will continue to collaborate together through National Preparedness Month in September until the end of hurricane season in November, to ensure our preparedness message is heard loud and clear.”

Strickland also reminded Marylanders to Know, Plan, and Act.

1. Know: Your zone in case you are told to evacuate by local emergency officials.
2. Plan: what you need to do to deal with an emergency now.
3. Act: Be familiar with evacuation areas, evacuate when ordered to do so.

As part of the ongoing PSA campaign in Maryland, MEMA has created eleven 30-second videos that cover all aspects of hurricane preparedness, including COVID-19 implications; hurricane threats, like storm surge and tidal flooding, flooding rains, hazardous winds, and tornadoes; evacuation zones and orders; emergency kit preparations; considerations for children and pets; and sheltering in place.

Preparing for the hurricane season––and all hazards––has become more challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic, for both emergency officials and the public. State and local officials, and their partners, have updated plans for both evacuation and sheltering because of COVID 19 limitations. MEMA reminds people of how COVID-19 may affect this year’s hurricane season in Maryland:

• People may be asked to shelter-in-place in lieu of evacuation in some circumstances, and if buses are provided to assist with evacuations, their capacity will be reduced.
• Allow extra time to evacuate if needed because shelters might be farther away.
• Residents are better off locating shelter with family or friends outside the expected danger zone or staying at an accommodation of their choice.
• Capacity at congregate shelters (i.e., schools) will be severely reduced and officials will explore using non-congregate shelters (i.e., hotels and rental properties) where available. But state, local, and nonprofit partners will still provide shelter options.
• Shelter operators also have stocked up on COVID-19 specific supplies such as face coverings, sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes, to augment what evacuees may not have. However, residents need to make added preparations to their disaster supply kit because of COVID 19:
  • Face coverings — at least 2 per person.
  • Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.
• Look here for the complete list of recommended supplies and make sure you have extra supplies for your pets.

The above additional considerations are in addition to the preparedness steps you should already have been taking:

• Prepare and plan for surviving on your own after a disaster.
• Plan for several days without electricity, water service, access to a supermarket, banks or ATMs, and other local services.
• Take time to learn lifesaving skills, such as CPR and first aid. Also, know how to take practical safety steps like shutting off water and gas.
• Check your insurance policies and coverage for the hazards you may face, such as flood, earthquakes, and tornados. Make sure to consider the costs associated with disasters and try to save for an emergency.
• Being prepared starts by knowing your risk and taking the appropriate actions before, during, and after a disaster strikes.
• This means a communications plan, an evacuation & reconvening plan, and a plan for your pets.
• Learn where you will receive emergency notifications, including news media, a NOAA weather radio, the Emergency Alert System (EAS), etc. Learn about other alert systems at Ready.gov/alerts.
• Plan to be able to receive Information from federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial resources.
• Follow MEMA and your local emergency management agency on social media.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, please visit MEMA, Ready.gov, the National Weather Service, and the American Red Cross. To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland during this hurricane season and beyond, text “MdReady” to 898211.

NOTE TO MEDIA: MEMA staff will be available to arrange interviews for your article, story or public affairs show. Please contact us at the email below.

###

CONTACT:
Maryland State Emergency Operations Center PIO: pio.mema@maryland.gov

MEMA Calls for Continued Vigilance and Preparedness as Isaias Impacts Maryland Early This Week

Prepare for Possible Power Outages, Include COVID-19 in Plans, and Know Your Zone

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (August 2, 2020) — The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and affiliated state agencies are closely monitoring Tropical Storm Isaias as it heads toward Maryland. Even though the storm is currently not a hurricane, Marylanders should be prepared for potential flooding, tidal surge in low lying areas, and tropical storm force winds (greater than 39 miles per hour).

“Please don’t let your guard down just because Isaias is no longer a hurricane,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Be prepared for potential power outages, flash floods and tidal flooding. This is still a dangerous system.”

At this time, it appears the lower Eastern Shore and Southern Maryland will be the hardest hit areas, with the heavily populated central region also expected to be affected. However, a slight shift westward of the storm track could bring heavy rain to parts of western Maryland. Regardless of location, most Marylanders can expect to feel some effects from Isaias.

MEMA also reminds Maryland residents to make sure emergency kits include at least 2 face coverings for each person, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, and other COVID-19 related supplies in addition to the usual disaster supply kit components.

During the COVID-19 pandemic it’s more important than ever to pay attention to the hazards of hurricane season. As a Marylander or as a visitor to Maryland, you should Know Your Zone to see if the places you live, work, or visit are in one of Maryland’s three evacuation zones. The Know Your Zone program allows local emergency officials to order evacuations by letter zones (A, B and C). To learn more about Know Your Zone or to see if you might be in an evacuation zone, please click here.

Remember that even if you are not in one of the Maryland evacuation zones, you could still feel the effects of hurricanes and other hazards. Hurricanes can spawn flash floods, severe thunderstorms, and tornadoes many miles away form the eye of the storm and 100 miles or more inland.

Here are some additional considerations while planning for hurricanes and other hazards during the COVID-19 pandemic:

• If you must evacuate, bring items such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials, and two cloth face coverings per person. Children under 2 years old, people who have trouble breathing, and people who cannot take the cloth face covering off without help should not wear cloth face coverings.
• Pay attention to emergency information and alerts from official sources.
• Keep devices charged in case of possible power outages.
• Know who to contact if you lose power. A list of contact information for power utilities in Maryland can be found here.
• Determine your best protection for high winds and flooding.
• Keep in mind that your best protection from the effects of a hurricane may differ from your best protection from disease.
• Unless you live in an evacuation zone, make a plan to shelter-in-place in your home, if it is safe to do so.
• Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
• Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from your home and away from windows, doors, and vents.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

It is also important to allow extra time to evacuate if needed because shelters might be farther away. As always, residents are better off locating shelter with family or friends outside the expected danger zone or staying at an accommodation of their choice. But state, local, and nonprofit partners will still provide shelter options.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, please visit MEMA, FEMA, the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross.

To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland during this hurricane season and beyond, text “MdReady” to 898211.

###

CONTACT:
Maryland State Emergency Operations Center PIO: pio.mema@maryland.gov

Marylanders Urged to Monitor Hurricane Isaias, Which Could Impact Maryland Early Next Week

Now is the Time to Update Supply Kit, Include COVID-19 in Plans, and Know Your Zone

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (July 31, 2020) —The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) encourages all Marylanders to monitor Hurricane Isaias and make plans now in case the storm impacts the Mid-Atlantic region. Forecasters remain uncertain about the exact track of the storm, but some models show it will affect parts of Maryland as soon as Monday evening of next week as it moves northward.The range of hazards that could affect Maryland is still broad – ranging from little impact, to Isaias bringing flooding rains and tropical storm force winds to central and eastern Md.

“Now is the time to make sure you are ready for possible effects from Hurricane Isaias,” said  Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “The COVID-19 pandemic adds another layer of complexity during a tropical storm or hurricane, and that means there may be changes to normal evacuation and sheltering plans,” he added.

MEMA also reminds Maryland residents to make sure emergency kits include at least 2 face coverings for each person, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, and other COVID-19 related supplies in addition to the usual disaster supply kit components.

During the COVID-19 pandemic it’s more important than ever to pay attention to the hazards of hurricane season. As a Marylander or as a visitor to Maryland, you should Know Your Zone to see if the places you live, work, or visit are in one of Maryland’s three evacuation zones. The Know Your Zone program allows local emergency officials to order evacuations by letter zones (A, B and C). To learn more about Know Your Zone or to see if you might be in an evacuation zone, please click here.

Remember that even if you are not in one of the Maryland evacuation zones, you could still feel the effects of hurricanes and other hazards. Hurricanes can spawn flash floods, severe thunderstorms, and tornadoes many miles away form the eye of the storm and 100 miles or more inland.

Here are some additional considerations while planning for hurricanes and other hazards during the COVID-19 pandemic:

• If you must evacuate, bring items such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials, and two cloth face coverings per person. Children under 2 years old, people who have trouble breathing, and people who cannot take the cloth face covering off without help should not wear cloth face coverings.
• Pay attention to emergency information and alerts from official sources.
• Determine your best protection for high winds and flooding.
• Keep in mind that your best protection from the effects of a hurricane may differ from your best protection from disease.
• Unless you live in an evacuation zone, make a plan to shelter-in-place in your home, if it is safe to do so.
• Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
• Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from your home and away from windows, doors, and vents.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

It is also important to allow extra time to evacuate because shelters might be farther away. As always, residents are better off locating shelter with family or friends outside the expected danger zone or staying at an accommodation of their choice. But state, local, and nonprofit partners will still provide shelter options.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, please visit MEMA, FEMA, the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross.

To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland during this hurricane season and beyond, text “MdReady” to 898211.

###

CONTACT:
Maryland State Emergency Operations Center PIO: pio.mema@maryland.gov

Be Prepared for the Effects of COVID-19 on 2020 Hurricane Season

Coronavirus Concerns May Change Sheltering and Evacuation Plans; Make Sure Your Kit has Masks, Other Safety Gear; Remember to Know Your Zone

Reisterstown, Md. (June 10, 2020) — The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is updating response procedures to include COVID-19 components as it plans for the 2020 hurricane season, and encourages Maryland residents to do the same. Disasters will not wait because of the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and evacuation, sheltering, and access to essential preparedness items will be different than in years past.

“We all need to take a closer look at our hurricane preparedness because of COVID-19,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA executive director. “It is more important than ever to make sure you have a family emergency plan and be ready to follow the directions of local emergency officials.”

MEMA has been working with other state agencies, local, and federal partners to update hurricane —and all natural hazards— plans for the months ahead. Planners are working to identify shelters with less open space and more individual rooms, such as hotels and motels, apartments and rental properties.

It also may be important to allow extra time to evacuate because shelters might be farther away. As always, you are better off locating shelter with family or friends outside the expected danger zone or stay at an accommodation of your choice. But state, local, and nonprofit partners will still provide shelter options.

We also understand that many people are under financial and psychological stress because of COVID-19, and the start of hurricane season can add to that stress. One way to alleviate some stress is to prepare ahead and plan for things you can control.

Make sure you have a plan if you need to evacuate, prepare a disaster supply kit to the best of your ability, and follow weather information so you will know if a tropical weather system is headed toward the Middle Atlantic region. You should also make sure the supply kit has adequate masks and hand sanitizer for everyone in your evacuation group.

Marylanders also should Know Your Zone to see if the places you live, work or visit are in one of Maryland’s three evacuation zones. The Know Your Zone program allows local emergency officials to order evacuations by letter zones (A, B and C). To learn more about Know Your Zone or to see if you might be in an evacuation zone, please click here.

Remember that even if you are not in one of the Maryland evacuation zones, you could still feel the effects of hurricanes and other hazards. Hurricanes can spawn flash floods, severe thunderstorms, and tornadoes many miles away form the eye of the storm and 100 miles or more inland.

Here are some additional considerations while planning for hurricanes and other hazards during the COVID-19 pandemic:

• If you must evacuate, bring items such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials, and two cloth face coverings per person. Children under 2 years old, people who have trouble breathing, and people who cannot take the cloth face covering off without help should not wear cloth face coverings.
• Pay attention to emergency information and alerts.
• Determine your best protection for high winds and flooding.
• Keep in mind that your best protection from the effects of a hurricane may differ from your best protection from disease.
• Unless you live in an evacuation zone, make a plan to shelter-in-place in your home, if it is safe to do so.
• If you live in a mandatory evacuation zone, make a plan with friends or family to shelter with them where you will be safer and more comfortable.
• Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
• Only use outdoor generators that are at least 20 feet away from your home and away from windows, doors, and vents.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, please visit MEMA, FEMA, the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross.

To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland during this hurricane season and beyond, text “MdReady” to 898211.

###

CONTACT:
MD COVID-19 Joint Information Center, pio.mema@maryland.gov
24/7 line: 877-636-2872