PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – April 5, 2017 – The National Weather Service today reported that Southern Maryland has an “enhanced” risk for damaging wind gusts during tomorrow’s severe thunderstorms. There is also a risk of isolated tornadoes and small stream flooding for our area.
The Calvert County Department of Public Safety urges citizens to take time today and this evening to prepare for the storms which should arrive tomorrow mid-morning and continue through tomorrow afternoon. Residents should consider the following actions to be prepared when these potentially dangerous storms threaten.
Prepare for High Winds
• Reinforce garage doors.
• Designate an interior room with no windows or external doors as a “safe room.”
• Assess your landscaping and trees to ensure they do not become a wind hazard.
Prepare for Flooding
• Determine the elevation of your property to learn your vulnerability to flooding.
• Evaluate your insurance coverage.
• In flood-prone areas, keep on hand materials such as plywood, plastic sheeting, plastic garbage bags, lumber, shovels, work boots and gloves.
• Be aware of areas known to flood so your evacuation routes are not cut off.
As the Storm Approaches
• Secure lawn furniture and other outside objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Listen carefully for safety instructions from local officials. Monitor NOAA weather radio.
During the Storm
• Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and doors.
• Listen to a battery-powered radio for storm updates.
• Have flashlights/batteries handy and avoid open flames and candles.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce damage when power is restored.
After the Storm
• Stay away from downed or dangling power lines.
• Beware of weakened tree limbs.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate your house.
• Use your phone only in emergencies.
• Do not drive into water of unknown depth.
• Restrict children from playing in flooded areas.
Residents are encouraged to consider family members or neighbors with special needs and assist them in preparing for this storm activity. To stay informed on the approaching weather event, residents should monitor local television channels, radio stations and the Internet.
Stay abreast of local information and weather notices by signing up for Calvert ALERT, a notification system that can send messages by text, email, fax, land line and pager. Residents are urged to visit the county website the Emergency Alerts link to register for the notification service. Those without Internet access can call 410-535-1600, ext. 2638, to sign up. The Calvert County Government web site at www.co.cal.md.us and Facebook page will have updates on local preparations and county government closures should they become necessary.