Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 29, 2010

“Turn Around, Don’t Drown” When Facing Flooded Roads
EMERGENCY OFFICIALS ALERT CITIZENS TO
UPCOMING STORMS

FREDERICK, MD – Due a Flash Flood Watch in effect for the region and the potential for turbulent storms over the next few days, the Frederick County Department of Emergency Preparedness cautions citizens to be ready and maintain their awareness of flooding conditions throughout the county.

Emergency officials note that Tropical Depression 16 could develop into Tropical Storm Nicole sometime today. Frederick County is currently under a Flash Flood Watch from late this evening through midnight on Thursday. The National Weather Service expects the main part of the storm to pass over Maryland late Wednesday through late Thursday afternoon, but precipitation will move into the area around 2:00 p.m. today.

Current predictions show two - four inches of rain with the potential for six inches in localized areas. However, there is a chance these amounts will to increase to three – five inches with the potential for eight inches in localized areas, depending on the track of the storm and other variables. Winds will be steady at 10 to 15 mph, but may gust 40 – 50 mph with thunderstorms as they pass through the area.

This storm also has the potential for producing isolated tornadoes after midnight east of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Department of Emergency Preparedness reminds citizens to not drive on flooded roadways or walk through floodwaters even if they appear shallow or slow-moving. The force of one foot of swiftly moving water can knock people off their feet. Cars can easily be swept away in less than two feet of water. Floodwaters can mask other hazards such as broken or leaking gas lines, flooded electrical circuits, roadway damage or other dangers. Damages from flood events include loss of life, property damage, crop damage, water and sewage plant failures and loss of power.

The Monocacy River and other feeder creeks into the Potomac River will be prone to flooding, due to the amount of water already in the system.

Emergency messages will be posted on www.FrederickCountyMD.gov and broadcast on local radio and television stations, including Frederick County Government channel 19.

Visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Emergency or contact the Department of Emergency Preparedness at 301-600-1746 or [email protected] for more information and preparedness tips.