FREDERICK, MD – Frederick County emergency management officials and their emergency partners encourage residents to be prepared for the impact of remnants of Hurricane Ida. The remnants of Ida will interact with a stalled front, resulting in a prolonged period of rainfall beginning Wednesday morning and continuing through Wednesday night. Rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches are expected, with localized amounts up to 6 inches possible.
Such severe weather may not only result in the potential for considerable flash flooding of creeks, small streams, and urban areas, but also the potential for river flooding on the main stem rivers. Damaging winds, tornadoes, hail, and lighting are also possible. The Department of Emergency Preparedness reminds citizens not to drive through flooded areas during heavy rains.
Residents should prepare for severe storms by taking the following actions:
- Sign up for emergency alerts at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/ALERT.
- If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued or there are strong winds, get to a sturdy shelter and stay indoors away from windows.
- Tornadoes can form rapidly in the right conditions. If there is a tornado warning or a tornado in sight, quickly get inside and go to the lowest floor possible.
- During flooding, never enter an area where water is flowing over a road and the pavement is not visible. Turn around, don’t drown!
Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into floodwaters.
For more information on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and hazards, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/READY. Additionally, the Department of Emergency Preparedness can be contacted at 301-600-1746 or EM@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
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