MARYLAND News (5/30/2024) – As the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is calling on residents to start their preparations early. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted an exceptionally busy season, with an 85-percent chance of above-normal activity. This forecast highlights the importance of being ready for potential hurricanes and tropical storms.
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MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland emphasized the significance of preparedness, stating, “The NOAA 2024 hurricane forecast calls for more storms than ever before and it is important that all Marylanders take preparations seriously. High winds, storm surge, tidal and inland flooding can all be deadly consequences of hurricanes and tropical storms.”
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NOAA’s forecast, which covers the period from June 1 to November 30, predicts 17 to 25 named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of these, 8 to 13 are expected to become hurricanes, and 4 to 7 could reach major hurricane status, with category 3 or higher winds. The forecast is driven by factors such as near-record warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures, La Niña conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds, and lower wind shear, all conducive to storm formation.
A crucial part of hurricane preparedness for those in coastal or tidal areas is to “Know Your Zone.” The Know Your Zone program helps local emergency officials coordinate evacuations by assigning letter zones (A, B, and C) to different areas. This system simplifies communication during emergencies.
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Residents can determine their zone by visiting KnowYourZoneMD.com and using the “Find Your Zone” tool. This resource is vital for those living or working near the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, the coastal bay, and the ocean on the Eastern Shore. It’s important to note that these zones are specifically for storm surge or tidal flooding and do not apply to inland or flash flooding.
MDEM also offers several recommendations for hurricane preparedness:
- Plan Ahead: Do not wait until the peak of the hurricane season to prepare.
- Stay Informed: Pay attention to emergency alerts and information.
- Protection Measures: Ensure your home is protected from high winds and flooding.
- Shelter Plans: If not in an evacuation zone, plan to shelter-in-place if safe. Otherwise, arrange to stay with friends or family.
- Evacuation Shelters: Check with local authorities for information on public shelters.
- Generator Safety: Only use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from your home.
- Pet Plans: Know which hotels are pet-friendly and make a plan for your pets.
- Flood Safety: Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.
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For more detailed information on hurricane preparedness, including emergency plans and supply kits, residents are encouraged to visit websites for MDEM, FEMA, the National Weather Service, and the American Red Cross.
Additionally, Marylanders can receive text alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards by texting “MdReady” to 211-631, or “MdListo” for alerts in Spanish. The MdReady WebApp also provides instant access to a wide range of emergency notifications and preparedness information. To install the app, users can visit MdReady.maryland.gov and follow the instructions to add the shortcut to their mobile device home screen.
By taking these steps now, Maryland residents can ensure they are prepared for the potential impacts of the upcoming hurricane season.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors.
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