by Severe Flooding in Western Maryland Prompts Call for Federal Assistance
In response to the destructive May 13–14 flooding in Western Maryland, Governor Wes Moore has formally requested a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment (JPDA) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
This critical step could pave the way for a Presidential Disaster Declaration and bring much-needed federal aid to impacted communities in Allegany and Garrett counties.
What Happened
Heavy rainfall and flash flooding struck Western Maryland earlier this month, leaving behind widespread damage to homes, roads, and public infrastructure.
The hardest-hit areas were Allegany and Garrett counties, which experienced substantial storm-related costs and losses.
In the aftermath, Maryland state agencies quickly mobilized to support local emergency response and recovery operations.
Key Details
- Flood Dates: May 13–14, 2024
- Affected Counties: Allegany and Garrett
- Damage: Significant destruction of residential property, infrastructure, and increased emergency response expenses
- Response: State and local emergency officials have been active in recovery efforts since the event
Governor Moore emphasized the urgency of assessing the full extent of the damage to secure timely federal assistance.
Reactions or Statements
Governor Moore stated:
“Moving in partnership with first responders, local leaders, and state officials, we have mounted a swift and aggressive response. But the breadth of damage requires us to accelerate our work in this moment.”
MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland added:
“Our teams have been on the ground since the flooding began, working hand-in-hand with local officials. This damage assessment will help ensure we have the information needed to seek federal assistance.”
Investigation or What’s Next
The Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment will be carried out by FEMA, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), and local emergency officials.
This process includes:
- On-the-ground inspections of affected sites
- Collection of data on damage severity and financial losses
- Submission of findings to support a federal disaster request under the Stafford Act
If approved, a Presidential Disaster Declaration would unlock federal funds and resources to support long-term recovery.
FAQs
What is a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment (JPDA)?
It’s a formal process where state, local, and federal teams evaluate disaster-related damage to determine eligibility for federal assistance.
What kind of aid could Maryland receive?
Federal aid may include housing assistance, infrastructure repair funds, and support for emergency response costs.
How long does it take to receive a disaster declaration?
Timelines vary, but the assessment process is being prioritized to speed up the request.
Which counties are included in the request?
Currently, Allegany and Garrett counties are the focus due to their reported damage.
What are state agencies doing in the meantime?
MDEM and partner agencies are coordinating volunteer support, managing donations, and conducting early damage surveys.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Governor Wes Moore is taking decisive action to secure federal aid following the devastating floods in Western Maryland.
The Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment, now in motion, is a key step toward helping Allegany and Garrett counties recover and rebuild. State and local officials remain fully engaged as Maryland seeks federal disaster support for its hardest-hit communities.
