Hurricane Joaquin Veers Off-Shore; Heavy Rain, Wind, Flooding Still Expected; Events Cancelled

From Harford County government:

Good Afternoon, as promised I wanted to give everyone an update on Hurricane Joaquin. At this time, the hurricane is expected to remain off-shore and pose no real threat to Harford County. However, we still expect heavy rain today and overnight from a different weather system and that may cause some flooding and power outages when the wind picks up this evening. Many of the outdoor activities scheduled for this weekend have been cancelled including the Darlington Apple Festival. Thanks and Be Safe.

From the town of Bel Air:

Severe Weather Information
Hurricane Joaquin:
Hurricane Joaquin is quickly approaching the United States. Uncertainty still exists concerning the potential for Joaquin to impact the Harford County/Bel Air area. Currently, most models are indicating that we will receive from 3-10 inches. The Hurricane could be arriving in our area late Sunday, October 4 and continue impacting our community through Monday, October 5.

We would like to offer several reminders for the citizens of our community should the Bel Air area be impacted by Joaquin.

Reminders:

(1) Please be mindful of “high-standing” water and power outages (signal outages). All operators are obligated to come to a complete stop at an intersection with non-functioning traffic signals and then proceed with caution.

(2) The Bel Air Police Department will place temporary stop signs at intersections as time permits.

(3) Department of public works; police and fire personnel are going to be activated, however, patience is a necessity as public services may be overwhelmed.

(4) Flash floods are the #1 cause of death associated with thunderstorms, more than 90 fatalities occur each year as a result of these. Remember “Turn Around Don’t Drown” when approaching high water areas.

(5) A helpful preparedness guide has been prepared by the Harford County Department of Emergency Operations.

(6) Harford County Executive Glassman has also prepared a useful guide and links for smart device notifications.

(7) Visit the Maryland Emergency Management Agency for storm updates.

(8) Please stay tuned for emergency notifications from your local leaders in the Town of Bel Air and Harford County.

From the Maryland State Highway Administration:

STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION PREPARES FOR HEAVY RAIN

Storms Could Cause Localized Flooding, Power Outages and Closed Roads

The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) is preparing for heavy rain over the next several days. SHA crews are stocking high water and road closure signs, cones, generators and tree/debris clearing equipment to respond to any damage due to heavy rains from the forecasted Nor’easter and effects from Hurricane Joaquin.

“Much of Maryland, particularly the Eastern Shore, is expected to see heavy rain and high winds tonight and the next several days,” said SHA Administrator Greg Johnson. “We urge travelers to keep a close eye on local weather forecasts, check 511 for traffic information and use caution when driving in severe weather conditions.”

SHA’s tips to stay safe during heavy rain storms:

– “Turn Around-Don’t Drown” – it only takes a few inches of water to cause a vehicle to lose traction and stall; one foot will float most vehicles and two feet will carry them away (source: FEMA)

– Plan for extra travel time as some roads may flood and be temporarily closed;

– Never attempt to remove a fallen tree from the roadway, especially if there are electrical wires tangled in the branches;

– Should an intersection lose power and traffic signals are not operating, remember that all drivers on all approaches of the intersection must treat it as a four-way stop;

– Be aware of flood-prone areas and avoid if possible;

– “Know before You Go” with 5-1-1 or log onto www.md511.org for information on state roads.

SHA’s Coordinated Highway Action Response Team (CHART) traffic patrols operate 24-7 in the metro areas and will continue to assist motorists in disabled vehicles or in collisions. SHA also deployed a team to Ocean City to support its Worcester County maintenance teams and local emergency responders.

SHA is part of the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) team stationed in Reisterstown. MEMA activated following Governor Hogan’s declaration of a State of Emergency. Follow MEMA’s Twitter feed @MDMEMA and Facebook page for more information.