Maryland road crews prepare for remnants of Tropical Storm Debby, Governor Moore urges caution

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland State Highway Administration is making preparations for heavy rain and high winds expected to impact the entire state with the arrival of Tropical Storm Debby, Thursday through Friday evening. Drivers are encouraged to avoid travel as the storm passes through the state.

State Highway Administration maintenance crews are preparing by clearing storm drain systems of debris, organized tree contractors, ensured proper operation of generators and loaded highwater signs in maintenance trucks. Additionally, the State Highway Administration has developed a staging plan to handle impacts from the storm and ensure that equipment is prepared for storm deployment.

The State Highway Administration encourages motorists to stay off the roads as much as possible and are reminded to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Other advice includes:

• Avoid downed or damaged power and transmission lines as these could still be live;
• Be cognizant of fallen trees or tree limbs in or near the roadway; and
• Treat intersections where traffic signals are out or on flash as a stop condition.

Officials ask that motorists remain vigilant and should heavy rain and high wind begin to affect the area, adjust travel plans to the extent as possible. If planning to drive, motorists should visit chart.maryland.gov for real-time travel information, including access to hundreds of live traffic cameras.

Should a motorist become disabled or be involved in a crash, dial #77 and move as far off the roadway as possible and use hazard lights.

Meanwhile, Governor Wes Moore on Thursday urged Marylanders to continue to monitor the path of the remnants of Hurricane Debby and to prepare for its possible impacts to the state. The storm is expected to travel through the Carolinas and Virginia before arriving in Maryland on Thursday evening, with impacts continuing into Friday. Flooding, wind, and tornadoes are considered to be potential threats.

“We have seen the images of damages caused by this storm in the south, so it is important that Maryland remains vigilant as we prepare for the possible effects on our state,” said Gov. Moore. “The Maryland Department of Emergency Management has coordinated with the National Weather Service and our state and local partners to prepare. We also want all Marylanders to remain vigilant and to be prepared—reach out to relatives, friends, and neighbors to offer help to those who may be vulnerable.”

Maryland may experience flash flooding and river flooding, with possible minor to moderate tidal flooding along some parts of the Chesapeake and its tributaries. Isolated tornadoes could form and high winds could cause downed trees and power outages.

Marylanders are urged to monitor trusted local forecasts or the National Weather Service forecast offices that serve the state.

Other preparations include:

• Encouraging family and friends to prepare—check on neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
• Know Your Zone, learn evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay.
• Follow instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state and local agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on any threats to communities and appropriate safety measures.
• Keep cell phones, tablets, and laptops charged and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
• Have enough household supplies, including medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in a go-bag or car trunk.

Governor Moore issued a State of Preparedness Order on Monday and directed the Maryland Department of Emergency Management to lead preparation efforts. Maryland State agencies stand ready to respond through increased coordination and enhanced constituent support and are prepared to deploy equipment and personnel to any impacted areas.

To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.