REISTERSTOWN, MD—The Maryland Department of Emergency Management is urging all Marylanders to monitor weather conditions and ensure they are prepared for severe weather beginning Friday, October 29 through Sunday, October 31.

The National Weather Service is predicting a range of hazards throughout the state, including heavy rain, coastal and tidal flooding, and gale force winds.

“Now is the time to make sure you are ready for what this storm may bring,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Have a plan in case you need to leave the area, especially if you have pets. Ensure your emergency supply kit is ready to go, let family and friends know about your plans, have a portable radio to listen to weather updates in the event you lose power, make sure all your devices are charged, and that you have an extra supply of batteries.”

According to the National Weather Service:

1. Beginning Friday and lasting through Sunday, significant to major tidal / coastal flooding is expected along shores of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal Potomac River.
2. Heavy rain with widespread amounts of 1-2 inches is also expected. Localized amounts of 3-4 inches and flooding are also possible.
3. Gale Warnings for the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and Atlantic Coast Friday morning through late Friday night. Storm Force Winds for middle and lower portions of Chesapeake Bay and lower Potomac River.
4. Potentially greatest tidal flooding since Hurricane Isabel in some locations.
5. Highest water levels most likely late Friday into early Saturday.

MDEM also reminds Maryland residents and visitors 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.

MDEM reminds residents to:

• Never walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
• Pay attention to emergency information and alerts from official sources.
• Determine your best protection for high winds and flooding.
• 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.
• 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.

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. 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 211-MD1.