As a powerful Northern Easter moves across the Atlantic, heading toward the Mid-Atlantic, Ocean City Mayor Richard Meehan shares what the city is doing to prepare in an October 11 press announcement.
Message from Ocean City Mayor Richard Meehan to the city before the storm
Ocean City Mayor Meehan was joined by OC Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald for the October 11 update which you can watch below.
More on what Ocean City is doing to prepare for Northeastern Easter
Along with the video update, Ocean City also offered a written statement about what it is doing to prepare and what residents should do as well. Here are key excerpts:
The city of Ocean City is closely monitoring a powerful coastal storm approaching the mid-Atlantic. The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy rain, strong winds and moderate coastal flooding beginning tonight (Saturday) and continuing through Monday, October 13.
“We want our residents, visitors and business owners to take this storm seriously and start preparing now,” said Mayor Meehan.
DETAILED FORECAST: Northeastern Easter to hit lower Maryland coast with flooding, high winds and more
The last impact on Ocean City of the Nor’easter is expected
Strong winds: Sustained winds of 35 to 45 mph, with gusts exceeding 50 knots.
Flood: Expect 1 to 2 feet of street flooding in some areas.
Areas of concern: includes downtown from Inlet to 15th Street; Isle of Wight Mobile Home Park; Warrens Park; Little Salisbury; and several neighborhoods in the north of the bay. The base of the Route 50 bridge may become impassable.
These conditions can lead to flooded roads and localized power outages, the city warned in its statement. The city urges the public to remain alert, avoid driving through standing water and prioritize safety. The effects of this storm are predicted to be similar to the effects we saw during Superstorm Sandy in 2012.
MARYLAND, OC PREPARE FOR THE STORM: Ocean City and State of Maryland Urge Residents to Prepare for the Worst as Powerful Northeastern Easter Approaches
When should Ocean City be expected to feel the impact of the storm?
Saturday late night: Heavy rains and strong winds begin.
From Sunday to Monday: The storm is intensifying and multiple high tide cycles are expected to worsen flooding in low-lying and bayside communities.
When high tides are expected:
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Sunday, October 12, around 1 p.m.
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Monday, October 13, around 1 am
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Monday, October 13, around 1 p.m.
Ocean City puts first responders on high alert, offers shelter
The city’s Public Works, Police, Fire and Emergency services are fully staffed and prepared to respond 24/7 during the storm.
A temporary shelter opens at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center (4001 Coastal Highway) on Sunday, October 12 at noon. Bring essential items such as food, medicine, clothing, chargers and daily necessities.
What Ocean City residents should do to prepare
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Residents and visitors are encouraged to:
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Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
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Charge phones and power banks.
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Prepare flashlights, batteries and necessary medications.
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Park vehicles on higher ground and off roads if possible.
Where to get the latest Ocean City updates and alerts
For the latest updates, subscribe to the city’s e-news alerts at oceancitymd.gov/enews. Additionally, please monitor the City’s official website and social media pages for timely information.
“Our teams and first responders are ready, but we need your help,” said Mayor Meehan. “Take this storm seriously, make smart decisions and take care of each other.”
This article originally appeared in the Salisbury Daily Times: OCMD provides update on Nor’easter, warns of impacts like Superstorm Sandy