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 @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.