The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1, initiating a six-month period of heightened tropical cyclone activity through November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts an above-average season, predicting 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes. Southern Maryland, including Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties, faces risks of storm surge, heavy rain, and inland flooding, prompting local emergency management agencies to urge preparedness.
NOAA’s May 22 outlook cites warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures, weak wind shear, and a neutral El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) as key drivers of storm activity, with a 60% chance of an above-normal season. Colorado State University (CSU) predicts 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes, noting a high likelihood of U.S. landfalls, particularly in coastal regions like Southern Maryland. CSU’s April 3 forecast emphasizes the region’s vulnerability due to its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic. For more on NOAA’s outlook, visit https://www.noaa.gov.
Southern Maryland’s history with tropical systems, including Hurricanes Agnes (1972), Isabel (2003), and Irene (2011), underscores the region’s exposure to flooding and wind damage. Calvert County, bordered by the Chesapeake Bay, faces coastal flooding risks, while Charles and St. Mary’s Counties are prone to inland flooding from heavy rainfall. The Calvert County Department of Public Safety, Emergency Management Division, advises residents to identify flood-prone areas and secure properties against wind hazards.
The 2025 season follows a destructive 2024, with Hurricanes Beryl, Helene, and Milton causing widespread damage. The names Andrea through Wendy, including new name Dexter, will be used this year. AccuWeather forecasts 13 to 18 named storms, warning of rapid intensification in the Gulf and Caribbean, areas that could steer storms toward Maryland. “A rapid intensification of storms will likely be a major story yet again this year,” said Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather’s Lead Hurricane Expert.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has enhanced 2025 forecasts, extending advisories to 72 hours before storm surge or tropical-storm-force winds reach land. Early-season activity is possible, with 43 pre-June 1 storms recorded since 1851. The season peaks from mid-August to mid-October, with September 10 as the historical high point. Southern Maryland residents are urged to monitor NHC outlooks, active since May 15, for early warnings.
In Calvert County, the Emergency Management Division recommends signing up for Calvert County ALERT and downloading the “Calvert Prepare” app for real-time notifications. Contact the division at 410-535-1600, ext. 2638, for assistance. Charles County’s Department of Health, Office of Emergency Preparedness, collaborates with federal and state partners to ensure resilience. Residents can request preparedness presentations by emailing ccdh.epr@maryland.gov. St. Mary’s County encourages use of Maryland’s 511 service for road updates at https://www.MD511.org.
Preparation is critical, as a single hurricane can devastate communities. The Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) advises securing emergency kits with water, food, and flashlights, and reinforcing homes against wind and flooding. Residents should know evacuation routes, particularly in low-lying areas, and register with Smart911 for tailored emergency responses. Charles County’s Emergency Services can be reached at 301-609-3400, while St. Mary’s County Emergency Management is available at 301-475-4200, ext. 2112.
The American Red Cross Southern Maryland Chapter, serving Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s, provides disaster relief and preparedness resources. Contact Courtney Gosse, Disaster Program Manager, at 410-375-8223 or courtney.gosse@redcross.org. Historical data suggest a 92% chance of a named storm affecting Maryland, with flooding as the primary threat. Residents are urged to act now to mitigate risks.
