On September 18, 2003, Hurricane Isabel hit Maryland and caused serious damage across the state. Starting out as a powerful Category 5 hurricane in the Atlantic, Isabel made landfall in North Carolina as a Category 2 hurricane. Although it had weakened to a tropical storm by the time it reached Maryland, Isabel still brought heavy rain, strong winds, and major flooding, especially along the Chesapeake Bay.
Water from the bay flooded Annapolis and rushed into downtown Baltimore, damaging homes, roads, and businesses. In eastern Baltimore County, the water rose quickly overnight and caught many people off guard. In total, about 34,000 homes were affected, and the damage across Maryland was estimated to be nearly $1 billion.
More than 20 years later, Hurricane Isabel serves as a powerful reminder of how quickly a storm can change everything. It shows the importance of being prepared and having reliable emergency alerts, particularly in a state like Maryland, where storms are a real risk.
Storm Preparedness in Maryland
While it is every Marylander’s duty to be prepared when a storm hits, the government plays a big role in shaping the disaster preparedness of the community. Programs that aim to guide and equip local communities to prepare for storms and other severe weather events have taken root in the state.
More than that, this grassroots approach to disaster preparedness has allowed Maryland to gain a StormReady certification from the National Weather Service (NWS) for all its local jurisdiction. It is only the eighth state to do so.
To achieve StormReady status, communities in Maryland had to meet specific preparedness requirements, including:
- Operating a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center,
- Having more than one way to receive and distribute severe weather notifications,
- Implementing a system that tracks and evaluates local weather conditions,
- Hosting community seminars to raise awareness and readiness, and
- Developing a formal hazardous weather plan, which includes storm spotter training and regular preparedness drills.
Being StormReady is a reflection of Maryland’s strong commitment to community safety. By meeting these standards, the state is better positioned to respond effectively to storms.
But that’s not all of it. The people of Maryland have a share of responsibility, too. Residents are encouraged to participate in preparedness programs and take personal steps to ensure they are individually storm-ready.
Tips on How to Prepare for a Storm in Maryland
To help you stay safe when dangerous weather strikes, the Maryland Office of People’s Counsel shared the following storm preparedness tips:
- Secure outdoor areas and remove or tie down loose items that could be carried by strong winds or cause damage.
- Unplug small electronic devices.
- Identify a safe shelter spot in your home, preferably on the first floor and away from windows.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged.
- Have extra cash on hand in case card systems are down.
- Fill up your gas tank ahead of the storm.
- Park vehicles on higher ground.
- Avoid parking under trees or power lines to prevent damage from falling debris or in flood-prone spots.
- Set your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest levels and keep the doors closed if the power goes out.
- Prepare an emergency kit with:
- Flashlights and extra batteries,
- A hand-cranked or battery-powered radio,
- Bottled water and non-perishable food,
- Medications and first aid items,
- Hygiene products and toiletries,
- Plastic utensils and a can opener,
- Blankets, and
- Important documents in a waterproof container.
Remember, however, that preparing for storms isn’t just about what you do but also about what you know. That’s why getting timely and accurate information through emergency alert systems is just as important as having supplies ready. These alerts help you act fast and make safer choices when a storm is on the way.
Emergency Alerts in Maryland
Delivering life-saving information in real time, emergency alerts serve as a vital line of defense. In Maryland, residents can receive fast, personalized text alerts for severe weather directly on their phones through MdReady. This service resulted from the collaboration between 211 Maryland and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM). As of this writing, almost 200,000 people have subscribed to these alerts.
Maryland also uses the Emergency Alert System (EAS), a national disaster alert system that covers both radio and television. By broadcasting alerts across these platforms, the EAS ensures its message reaches a wide audience. In fact, EAS is designed to broadcast alerts and warnings even if the media outlet is not staffed or operating after certain hours.
Understanding Maryland’s Storm Risks
Located in the mid-Atlantic region, Maryland faces a wide range of severe weather threats. Maryland ranks 17th among all states for storm risk. Its capital city, Annapolis, in particular, is expected to see around 1.4 inches of rainfall approximately 12 times each year by 2050.
- Hurricanes
Hurricanes are a type of storm that originate from the Atlantic Ocean. They are most common from June to November, but their peak season is between mid-August and late October. These storms can come with thunderstorms, tornadoes, microbursts, and winds over 165 mph. The accompanying heavy rain can also result in floods.
- Tornadoes
At least several tornadoes hit Maryland every year. They are common from April to November, and most occur between the afternoon to evening hours of 3 to 9 p.m. Many hit rural areas without much damage, but a few cause significant destruction and loss.
When it comes to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, it is important to be prepared and stay informed of weather updates and alerts. Understanding these risks and being proactive can help reduce the impact of severe weather events in local communities.
Is Maryland Ready for the Next Big Storm?
The devastation caused by Hurricane Isabel still echoes today as a reminder of how important storm preparedness and emergency alerts are in Maryland. It highlights the critical need for clear communication, early warnings, and the whole community’s preparedness.
Climate change, in particular, have increased extreme weather risks in the state, the country, and the world. But, with all of its 23 counties and Baltimore City being StormReady certified, Maryland is better equipped to face the next big storm now. This certification is also a testament to its communities’ commitment to proactive storm preparedness.
Emergency alerts, such as MdReady and the Emergency Alert System (EAS), currently play a key role in delivering real-time, life-saving information. Whether through personalized text messages or broad radio and TV broadcasts, these systems help Marylanders stay safe and informed before, during, and after a storm.
Having said all of this, everything boils down to the real question: Are you ready?
Because no matter how advanced the systems are, your safety still depends on your actions. Stay prepared and stay informed. Above all, stay safe.