Emergency Alerts

State of Preparedness Declared Ahead of Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes

Governor Moore declared a State of Preparedness in advance of widespread severe storms forecast to impact Maryland beginning as early as Monday morning and lasting through the evening.

A State of Preparedness enhances the State’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats before escalating response, providing an easier path for information sharing and coordination.

What to Expect:

There is a moderate risk (4 out of 5) for severe thunderstorms today
Storm hazards include widespread dangerous winds, with gusts up to 80 mph possible, hail, and an elevated risk for tornados.

We expect two bands of storms to move through the area, each capable of bringing the most severe impacts.

Depending on your location with western Maryland feeling the impacts first:
First Band: Early to mid-afternoon (likely affecting the afternoon rush hour)
Second Band: Early to mid-eveningTornado Watches are in effect for most of the State. Take this storm seriously and plan ahead.

Potential storm impacts include damage to structures, downed trees and powerlines, large scale power outages and disrupted travel.
Detailed forecast will be updated regularly at weather.gov/lwx/winter

Actions to Take:

Safety of Maryland Families Comes First:

We urge Maryland residents to be prepared, stay informed, and have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts.

Do not travel during the storm.

If you must travel, make sure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle and be sure to let someone know your route and destination before you go.

Have an emergency kit ready and a family emergency plan in place, including where to shelter if a tornado warning is issued for your area.

Stay informed by regularly checking weather updates from official sources and be sure to have a way to access local forecasts and warnings.

Heed all warnings and stay indoors during severe weather, including pets.

Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found at mdem.maryland.gov.

Keep devices charged in case of power outages.

.Generator Safety

Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, 
​basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.

Learn more about safe generator use from the American Red Cross.​

Please be a good neighbor and look in on older adults, neighbors, and anyone without reliable heat as tempaeratures will drop as the cold front moves along our state.

Additional Information
MDEM will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as needed.

Stay alert by following updates from your local emergency management office, NOAA/NWS forecasts, local media, and official briefings for updated information and possible watches or warnings.