Howard Prepares for Flash Floods Before Hurricane Joaquin

The path of Hurricane Joaquin remains fluid, yet officials are certain of one thing: large amounts of rain will fall in the mid-Atlantic through the weekend.

A flash flood watch is in effect for Columbia from 8 a.m. Friday to 8 p.m. Saturday, issued by the National Weather Service. There is the potential for rapid rises in water levels.

“Current expectations for our area are 2 to 3 inches” of rain by Saturday morning, Howard County government officials reported Thursday afternoon.

“Joaquin is now a Category 4 hurricane and is currently pummeling the western islands of the Bahamas,” the report said.

“It is expected to make a turn to the North sometime soon and head up along the East Coast of the United States....the expanded effects of the storm will be felt here in Howard County,” according to the report.

See Also: Flash Flood Watch Issued for Region

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is asking Marylanders to get ready.

“The time to prepare is right now,” said Russ Strickland, Executive Director of MEMA, in a recent news bulletin. “A few steps before heavy rain begins can help reduce effects of the storm on you, your family, and your home.”

MEMA published these tips to prepare for Joaquin and the intense rainfall that may precede it:

• Clean storm drains and gutters on your house to prevent overflow and water buildup.
• Don’t wait—communicate. Know how to get in contact with your friends and family during any emergency.
• Fuel up your vehicle before any storm.
• Ensure electronic equipment is not lying directly on the floor in the basement.
• Check here to see if you live or work in a flood prone area.
• Listen to instructions from local officials and know the current forecast by following your local emergency management office, forecasters, and news stations.

Follow MEMA on Twitter and Facebook for more information about the possible flooding and arrival of Hurricane Joaquin.

Photo Credit: Howard County Government.