May 8th, 2017 by WCBC Radio

This week is Maryland Hurricane Preparedness Week and Allegany County is teaming up with the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency to promote citizen awareness and preparedness.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November. The height of our season in Maryland typically is mid-August to October. Hurricanes can cause strong winds, heavy rain, inland flooding and other severe weather. Maryland residents can “be weather ready” by ensuring that they know how to receive a warning, have a plan, and practice safety tips. “Now is the time to start planning for hurricanes,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Make sure you have an emergency plan, a disaster supply kit ready, and that your family, friends, and neighbors are prepared as well. If a storm is headed our way, the safest action is the simplest action – use common sense and stay safe.”

The NWS notes Maryland can see hurricanes and impacts from a storm hundreds of miles away. “Damage to coastlines and destruction several hundred miles in-land can be seen with these tropical storms,” said NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist Christopher Strong.  “Hurricanes can produce 150-plus miles per hour winds, tornadoes and tremendous flooding from both tidal surges as well as torrential rain.”

The NWS and Allegany County Emergency Services work closely together and with local government agencies to identify and monitor hurricane activity, develop preparedness plans and safety information and coordinate the response to these storms. Residents can also take the following actions to remain safe:  Build an emergency supply kit and develop a family emergency and communications plan.  Stay tuned to trusted sources such as the National Weather Service and local broadcasters for official weather information. Keep a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio on hand to stay informed if the power goes out.  Follow instructions and advice given by emergency officials, especially instructions related to evacuation.  During severe weather, stay indoors away from windows.  Monitor NWS flood warnings for your area and be prepared to seek higher ground. Flooding is often our biggest threat. 

If you live in a mobile home, plan to leave if high winds are a threat as mobile homes are unsafe in high winds.  Fill a bathtub or other large container with water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets.  Charge devices before bad weather hits and consider keeping a charger in your car.

For questions about this Allegany County Department of Emergency Services information, contact Susan M. Lee, Deputy Director, Administration, slee@alleganygov.org, T 301-876-9155,  F 301-876-9160, 11400 PPG Road, SE, Cumberland, MD 21502-8718.