LA PLATA, Md. (September 8, 2011)—Commissioner President Candice Quinn Kelly declared a local state of emergency in Charles County at 8 p.m. Thursday, which will be in effect for seven days, due to severe flooding as a result of remnants of Hurricane Lee.
A declaration of a local state of emergency authorizes the Charles County Department of Emergency Services to engage, deploy, and coordinate available resources to protect life and property of Charles County residents.
Both Charles County Public Schools and the College of So. Md. have announced
that all campuses will be closed on Friday.
Currently, the National Weather Service has placed Charles County under a Flood Warning. This warning means that flood conditions are
anticipated to continue affecting the region within the next 24 hours.
A temporary shelter with restroom facilities has been established and is open at the Charles County Department of Community Services building in Port Tobacco (8190 Port Tobacco Road) for residents who are unable to get to their homes due to flooded roads. Pets (dogs and cats) are welcome at the shelter.
A temporary shelter with restroom facilities has also been established and is open at Piccowaxen Middle School in Newburg (12834 Rock Point Road).
A non-emergency telephone number, 301-609-3435 has been established for citizens to call who have questions during this weather event. If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Citizens are encouraged to stay off the roadways, if possible. If you must travel on the roads, use extreme caution and do not attempt to travel through flooded areas. Wash your hands if you come into contact with flood waters. Place belongings and valuables at home in higher places. Prepare your home and family for possible power outages.
somd.com is tracking all official government bulletins related to the flooding in Charles County at http://somd.me/charles-flood-09-sep