County Executive Leopold Urges Residents to Prepare for Hurricane Sandy

Coastal flooding, power outages and high winds expected

Annapolis, MD (October 26, 2012) - County Executive John R. Leopold is urging citizens to prepare for high winds, flooding and power outages starting on Sunday.

"Residents should hope for the best but prepare for the worst. While the latest forecasts have shown the worst of the storm might miss our region, we are still expecting a significant weather event with tropical force winds," County Executive Leopold said. "Don’t wait to get prepared. Protect your property and your family by making the necessary arrangements, and pay attention to weather warnings and alerts."

Today the Office of Emergency Management will send phone messages to residents in flood-prone areas advising them of the approaching storm and listing important precautions. County Executive Leopold has spoken with officials from Baltimore Gas & Electric, who advised they will have 1,300 workers on call in addition to their normal force. The Emergency Operations Center will fully activate at noon on Sunday, and Annapolis High School will open as an emergency shelter at 3 p.m. if needed. The shelter does accept pets, but please remember to bring food and any medications.

The latest forecast models suggest that Anne Arundel County can expect tropical storm force winds between 39 mph and 73 mph starting on Sunday, with extended periods of rain for up to two days. The storm could potentially affect the County directly on Monday.

Be sure to take the following precautions:

For power outages

• Make sure cell phones and other mobile devices are fully charged
• Stock up on non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration
• Check batteries in flash lights, portable radios and smoke detectors
• If you are on well water, fill your bathtub with water
• Store at least three gallons of water for drinking and sanitation
• Fill up vehicles with gas
• Those with special medical needs (such as oxygen, medication) should be prepared with contingency plans.

For flooding

• Clear all storm drains and gutters from debris
• Do not drive through flooded areas
• Do not touch electrical equipment or appliances if you are wet or standing in water
• Do not walk through moving water

For high winds

• Secure any outdoor items that could cause damage and remove items that cannot be secured
• Shutter windows and door securely
• Avoid anything that may be touching downed power lines

The page will be updated throughout the storm preparation and response.

You can also "like" the Office of Emergency Management Facebook page at  

http://www.facebook.com/Anne-Arundel-County-OEM

You can also "like" the Office of Emergency Management Facebook page at  

http://www.facebook.com/Anne-Arundel-County-OEM