Hurricane Florence is expected to hit south of Maryland later this week, but Harford County citizens should prepare now for local impacts including flooding and power outages. Above average rainfall this spring and summer have soaked the ground and swelled area waterways, increasing the potential for hazards including floods and trees falling on power lines.
“Harford County is still feeling the effects of flash floods on Labor Day weekend that required more than 20 swift water rescues and caused a tragic loss of life,” County Executive Barry Glassman said. “With Hurricane Florence, we have some time to prepare for this storm and others that may arise throughout hurricane season. Please use this time to make a plan to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
Remember to avoid walking or driving through flooded roadways. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down or stall your vehicle, and two feet of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Heed the warning to “turn around, don’t drown.” Storm-related county road closures can be tracked online at http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/1164/Road-Reports . Storm-related updates will be posted on the Facebook pages for Harford County Government and the Harford County Department of Emergency Services. The Department also offers the following safety information for Hurricane Florence and hurricane season:
- Sign up now to receive Harford County’s emergency alerts: https://harfordcounty.bbcportal.com/
- Secure outdoor objects or bring them inside; clear loose and clogged rain gutters, downspouts and storm drains when it is safe to do so before the storm
- Ensure that cell phones and other mobile devices are fully charged
- Familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation routes and high ground in your area; identify a place where family members will meet if necessary
- Do not use generators indoors including your garage or basement; generators should only be used outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from windows
- Have an emergency supply kit ready with a minimum of 3 to 7 days of nonperishable food and water
(a minimum of 1 gallon of water per person per day)
- Place copies of important documents and phone numbers along with cash in a sealed plastic bag in your supply kit
- Remember to stock food and water for your pets
- Check your supply of prescription medicines and ensure that you have extra on hand
- Check in on elderly neighbors or anyone without a support network
- Monitor weather conditions and follow instructions when issued
- Prepare a battery-powered radio; stay tuned to radio station WXCY 103.7 FM and local TV news for official weather information
- Make a note of the Harford County Information Line, which may become activated for non-emergency information during a storm: 410-838-5800
For more hurricane safety information, please visit http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/1976/HurricanesTropical-Storms.
