City of Annapolis Monitoring Potential for Severe Weather Set to Arrive Monday Afternoon as Governor Moore Declares State of Preparedness

The City of Annapolis is preparing for the impacts of a significant storm system on track to arrive in the Mid-Atlantic area in the early afternoon on Monday, as Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared as State of Preparedness.

According to city officials, timing is variable, but the most severe impacts may begin to be seen around noon and could last until 7 or 8 p.m. Monday. The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch, in effect until 7 p.m. Monday, as well as a Coastal Flood Warning, in effect until 10 p.m. Monday.

In a statement, Governor Wes Moore said he declared a State of Preparedness ahead of significant risk for widespread, severe storms producing damaging winds, hail, and a heightened tornado threat across Maryland. These storms have the potential to cause damages to structures, downed trees and powerlines, and create debris. Marylanders are urged to have a plan to shelter if a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning is issued for the area, secure or bring in loose objects around their homes, reschedule outdoor activities, and to follow local forecasts for the most up-to-date information for your area.

“In declaring a State of Preparedness for Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts across state government in advance of the incoming severe storms,” said Gov. Moore. “The safety of Maryland families comes first. I am urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans, including postponing travel, as conditions change. Know the safest room at home or at work, and plan to be indoors before the storm arrives.”

The City’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is preparing for impacts by organizing cut and toss crews to handle broken branches and downed trees, arranging for the deployment of damage assessment teams at the conclusion of the storm event, and preparing for public safety staff availability to assist residents in the aftermath. Power outages are a significant threat from this storm system. The City is working with BGE to monitor power restoration, if needed. 

City services and local government announcements as of 10:30 a.m. on Monday: 

• Liberal leave is in effect for City offices until 1 p.m. today. At 1 p.m., all City offices will close for non-essential employees. Essential employees should report for duty as directed by your supervisor. 

• All scheduled evening activities are canceled. 

• The Pip Moyer Recreation Center and the Stanton Center will both close at 1 p.m. on Monday. 

• Refuse and recycling collection for Monday is not impacted; no decision has been made regarding Tuesday collections. 

• Transit operations will continue as conditions permit, with fixed-route service ending at 7 p.m. and switching to Go Time (on demand). Paratransit will continue with scheduled service. The State and Magenta shuttles will continue normal operational hours as conditions permit. 

• Anne Arundel County Public Schools will dismiss two hours early. For more information, visit AACPS.org. 

Residents should prepare now by:

• Removing items from your yard that may become projectiles.

• Charging mobile devices and having flashlights and extra batteries at the ready.

• Preparing for potential power outages by having extra water and blankets on hand.

• Staying inside and away from windows during severe thunderstorms. 

• Using caution on the roadways due to high winds and a potential for flooding.

Businesses should be alert to threats, including: 

• Flooding: There is a potential for coastal flooding from high tides and coastal inundation in low-lying areas, including Dock Street, Compromise Street, and parts of Eastport. Total rainfall is forecast at less than an inch, per the National Weather Service. 

• Strong winds: Tornadoes and straight-line winds, which can produce flying debris, downed trees and power lines, and damage to structures.

The City’s Emergency Operations Center and Annapolis Call Center will increase to a partial activation on Monday at 2 p.m. For non-emergency questions related to the storm and City services, Annapolis residents may call 410-260-2211. For emergencies, please dial 9-1-1.