LEONARDTOWN, Md. โ€“ Due to the potential effects of Tropical Storm Elsa, Commissioner President James R. Guy has declared a local State of Emergency effective at noon, Thursday, July 8, 2021, for seven days to expire July 13, 2021.

The State of Emergency declaration authorizes the Commissioner President โ€œto take such measures as necessary to maximize the preservation of life and property, including the authority to require the evacuation of areas.โ€

A Tropical Storm Warning and a Flash Flood Watch are in effect for St. Maryโ€™s County through Friday, July 9. Tropical Storm Elsa is expected to move across Southern Maryland Thursday night, bringing heavy rainfall with totals estimated to be up to 2 to 3 inches, with amounts of up to 5 inches possible.

Commissioner President Guy said, โ€œSt. Maryโ€™s County is prepared to meet all weather-related challenges. Declaring a State of Emergency is an appropriate step of preparation we are taking to ensure the safety of our residents and the protection of property.โ€

For more information and updates, visit www.stmarysmd.com.