Residents need to Be Aware and Be Prepared that a Flood Watch has been issued for all of Southern Maryland. The National Weather Service has issued this watch because there is the potential for flooding based on current forecasts. Approximately 2 to 4 inches of rain can be expected through Sunday, with heaviest periods of rainfall starting tonight and continuing through Saturday night.
Expect mild to moderate flooding of creeks and streams in our area, which could cause flooding issues on roadways and in problem areas. There is also the potential for Coastal Flooding for the Chesapeake Bay and Tidal Potomac River. At this time, St. Mary’s County is already experiencing an increase in normal tides and this will continue through Friday night and Saturday’s high tides cycles.
Please be aware of the following flood safety tips for driving:
• Do not drive unless necessary.
• Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded-out roadway ahead, turn around and find another route to get to your destination.
• If there is no other route, proceed to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.
• Even if the water appears shallow enough to cross, do not attempt to cross a flooded road. Water can conceal dips, or worse, floodwaters can damage roadways, washing away the entire road surface and a significant amount of ground.
• If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
• Remember, six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.
• One foot of water will float many vehicles.
• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including SUV’s and pick-ups.