On Tuesday, Aug. 6, Gov. Wes Moore signed a State of Preparedness declaration due to possible effects from the remnants of Hurricane Debby later this week. Although the hurricane’s direct path is still uncertain, Maryland areas are projected to experience heavy rain, wind and flooding.
“The safety of Marylanders is our top priority. By declaring a State of Preparedness, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby,” Gov. Moore said in a press release. “Residents and visitors should monitor local weather forecasts, remain vigilant, and be prepared to follow safety instructions from local emergency officials.”
A State of Preparedness “enhances the state’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats in advance of an actual disaster,” according to the Maryland Department of Emergency Management. The order is part of a phased approach to emergency response and protection, providing the state flexibility and ability to prepare for potential impacts from hazards or threats without having to declare a full State of Emergency.
Hurricane Debby made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida on Aug. 5 as a Category 1 Hurricane. It is now considered a tropical storm and is currently near the Carolinas.
Photo courtesy of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Satellite Imaging
