UPDATED: Worcester Residents Should Prepare for Significant Rain & Possible Flooding
UPDATED THURSDAY, 9-13 – Based on updated forecast information from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) regarding the track of Hurricane Florence, the threat to Worcester County has been significantly reduced. Worcester County Emergency Services (WCES) is urging residents to prepare for significant rainfall.
Those residing in low-lying areas prone to flooding should prepare for flooding in their areas.
WCES Director Fred Webster reminds residents that driving through flooded roads is extremely dangerous.
“Depending on the depth of the water, it’s hard to tell if there’s still actually roadway under the flood waters,” Webster said. “Everyone should heed the public service message to ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown.’”
Beginning Friday and continuing throughout the weekend, Worcester County is likely to experience wind, with gusts up to 35 miles per hour, heavy rain of up to six inches, rip currents, and bayside and tidal flooding. With already saturated soils, additional rain this weekend will likely result in downed trees and power lines.
WCES officials will continue to monitor the track of Hurricane Florence and keep residents and visitors updated on any potential changes in storm impacts to the area.
Visit www.co.worcester.md.us and click on Know Your Zone to view a copy of the Worcester County Evacuation Zone Maps and learn more about how to create an emergency preparedness kit.
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Worcester County Emergency Services (WCES) urges those residing in mobile homes and low-lying, flood-prone areas in Zone A to make preparations to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Florence.
Though no mandatory evacuation order has been issued at this time, residents in low-lying areas and mobile homes are extremely vulnerable to anticipated hurricane conditions.
Visit www.co.worcester.md.us and click on Know Your Zone to determine if individual properties are located in Zone A (greatest risk), Zone B, or Zone C (least risk).
- Those served by well water are reminded that power loss could result in loss of water
- Have bottled water on hand, and set aside water in bathtubs for washing and flushing toilets
- Have canned and other nonperishable foods that do not require cooking or refrigeration
Governor Larry Hogan issued a State of Emergency for all of Maryland. In the event that the Worcester County Commissioners issue a State of Emergency for Worcester County, tune in to your local news stations, for information and instructions on what additional measures to take, or visit Worcester County at www.co.worcester.md.us or on Facebook and Twitter.
