Heavy Rain, Gusty Winds Expected To Lash Delmarva Friday

Residents and visitors on Delmarva are being alerted about the potential of heavy rain at times Friday as well as the risk of localized wind damage.

According to AccuWeather, rain is expected to be at its heaviest Friday afternoon into early Friday evening. Sustained winds of 20- to 30-miles per hour are likely, and wind gusts may exceed 50-miles per hour.

According to a statement Thursday from the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center:

A storm system crossing through the region Friday into Friday night will bring the potential for strong winds, heavy rain, and tidal/coastal flooding. Widespread minor and some moderate tidal flooding is expected along the coasts of New Jersey and Delaware, along Delaware Bay, on the tidal Delaware River, and along the upper eastern shore of Chesapeake Bay. The high tide of biggest concern is on Friday, but tidal flooding is also possible with Thursday high tides and it may continue into Saturday. Periods of heavy rain are possible Friday afternoon through Friday. Widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are forecast with locally higher amounts of 2 to 4 inches possible. This could result in flooding of small streams and creeks, and areas of poor drainage. River levels may begin to rise again. An east wind is anticipated to increase to 15 to 30 MPH on Friday with gusts of 30 to 45 MPH possible by evening. The strongest wind and gusts should occur Friday. The latest briefing can be located at www.weather.gov/media/phi/current_briefing.pdf and for the latest forecast please visit www.weather.gov/phi

The Maryland Department of Emergency Management released this statement Thursday:

The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is urging all Marylanders to monitor weather conditions and ensure they are prepared for severe weather beginning this Friday, October 29 through Sunday, October 31. The National Weather Service (NWS) is predicting a range of hazards to affect Maryland, including heavy rain, coastal and tidal flooding, and gale force winds.

“Now is the time to make sure you are ready for what this storm may bring,” said Russ Strickland, MDEM’s Secretary. “Have a plan in case you need to leave the area, especially if you have pets. Ensure your emergency supply kit is ready to go, let family and friends know about your plans, have a portable radio to listen to weather updates in the event you lose power, make sure all your devices are charged, and that you have an extra supply of batteries.”

According to the NWS:

• Beginning today and lasting through Sunday, significant to major tidal / coastal flooding is expected along shores of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal Potomac River.
• Heavy rain with widespread amounts of 1-2 inches is also expected. Localized amounts of 3-4 inches and flooding are also possible.
• Gale Warnings for the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, and Atlantic Coast Friday morning through late Friday night.
  • Storm Force Winds for middle and lower portions of Chesapeake Bay and lower Potomac River.
• Potentially greatest tidal flooding since Hurricane Isabel in some locations. 
• Highest water levels most likely late Friday into early Saturday.

MDEM also reminds Maryland residents and visitors to make sure emergency kits include at least 2 face coverings for each person, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, and other COVID-19 related supplies in addition to the usual disaster supply kit components.

Here are some additional considerations while planning for severe weather and other hazards during the COVID-19 pandemic:

• Never walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
• Pay attention to emergency information and alerts from official sources.
• Determine your best protection for high winds and flooding.
• Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
• Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from your home and away from windows, doors, and vents.
• If you must evacuate, bring items such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials, and two cloth face coverings per person. Children under 2 years old, people who have trouble breathing, and people who cannot take the cloth face covering off without help should not wear cloth face coverings.

It is also important to allow extra time to evacuate because shelters might be farther away. As always, residents are better off locating shelter with family or friends outside the expected danger zone or staying at an accommodation of their choice. But State, local, and nonprofit partners will still provide shelter options.

To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland during this hurricane season and beyond, text “MdReady” to 211-MD1.