Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency in response to last week’s historic flooding that devastated parts of Western Maryland.

The declaration aims to accelerate state-led recovery efforts, providing much-needed support to residents and communities in Allegany and Garrett Counties. It also allows Maryland to request federal assistance through FEMA, though approval and the level of support are not guaranteed.

The governor announced the emergency declaration during his visit to Allegany County, where he joined state and local officials to survey the damage firsthand.

“After surveying the damage and receiving updates on the work still ahead in Western Maryland, I’ve declared a State of Emergency to accelerate our response,” said Governor Moore.

Last week, severe weather dumped over five inches of rain across the region, causing major floods and infrastructure damage. Allegany and Garrett Counties saw some of the most significant impacts, with the Georges Creek area experiencing its second-highest crest on record. The flooding washed out gas lines, cut off water services in Lonaconing, and left roadways impassable due to landslides and severe erosion.

With mutual aid from neighboring jurisdictions, local first responders conducted numerous water rescues, evacuating more than 200 students and staff from Westernport and George’s Creek Elementary Schools. Emergency crews continued welfare checks in the aftermath, while counties transitioned from response to recovery mode.

Local Resilience in Action

Despite the severity of the flooding, local emergency managers swiftly coordinated evacuation efforts and shelter operations. All county shelters had been closed by Wednesday, and recovery efforts were underway.

This rapid response underscores the critical role of local emergency preparedness — a theme MACo has consistently championed in advocating for stronger state and federal support.

In recent weeks, MACo’s County Emergency Managers Affiliate sent letters to Maryland’s congressional delegation, urging the restoration of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program and reinforcing the importance of FEMA’s core mission.

Counties have consistently pushed for these federal resources to enhance local resilience and fund critical infrastructure upgrades to mitigate the impact of severe weather events. The flooding in Western Maryland is a stark reminder of the need for robust emergency planning and adequate funding to support local response and recovery.

As previously reported on Conduit Street, counties across Maryland depend heavily on federal grants like BRIC to bolster flood mitigation, strengthen infrastructure, and safeguard residents from natural disasters. Without those funds, local governments face steeper challenges in preparing for and responding to emergencies of this scale.

Moving Toward Recovery

Governor Moore’s emergency declaration allows state agencies to deploy resources more rapidly and coordinate closely with local officials to assess and address community needs.

The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), in coordination with county emergency management offices, the Department of Natural Resources, Maryland State Police, and other state partners, is leading efforts to restore water services, clear transportation routes, and support affected residents and businesses.

As the recovery phase begins, the focus will shift to infrastructure repairs, water system restoration, and community support. Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain noted the swift response to address drinking water issues, evaluate dam operations, and manage hazardous material cleanup.

Furthermore, Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman announced tax relief to businesses affected by the severe flash flooding. In addition, Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld committed state resources to clear debris and reopen roads in the hardest-hit areas.

Allegany County launched a website to keep residents informed, hooked, and supported during recovery. Meanwhile, Garrett County ramped up community outreach, coordinating with local emergency teams to ensure rapid response and clear communication for those impacted.

Useful Links

Conduit Street Podcast: Disaster Dollars in Danger — Federal Funding Fades, County Risks Rise

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