WASHINGTON — Both Maryland and Virginia have states of emergency in effect as the weather forecast calls for near-constant storm activity in the coming days.
Downpours are expected Friday and Saturday followed by the possibility of more rain from the remnants of Hurricane Joaquin.
“We are looking at what could be a very significant amount of rainfall that will affect virtually all the people in Virginia,” said Bill Hayden, spokesman for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
Emergency agencies across the commonwealth are expecting flooding in neighborhoods in addition to overflowing rivers and streams.
“We’re also looking out for power outages, and for people to be prepared for possible power outages by having their emergency supplies available to them if they cannot leave where they are,” Hayden said.
Utility companies, such as Pepco and Dominion Virginia Power, have extra staff on hand to work around-the-clock, restoring outages as they occur. Still, they urge everyone to be prepared for widespread outages that could potentially last several days.
“Have an emergency kit that includes a battery-operated radio, multiple flashlights, extra batteries and nonperishable food,” reads a statement from Dominion Virginia Power.
“Have a full tank of gas in your car, and make sure cellphones and other electronic devices are fully charged.”
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency Thursday, one day after Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe made that state’s declaration.
“While we’re hoping for the best, we’re preparing for the worst,” Hogan said.
“This is a proactive measure to ensure that all necessary resources are mobilized in areas of our state with the greatest potential need.”
Hogan said state agencies will pay particularly close attention to the coastal and low-lying areas in Maryland that are more susceptible to flooding.