Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Preparedness for Maryland on March 15, 2026, in anticipation of severe storms forecast to impact the entire state on Monday, March 16, 2026. The declaration activates coordinated readiness across state agencies to address risks including damaging winds, large hail, and a heightened potential for tornadoes.
The storms, driven by a powerful cold front, are expected to move from western Maryland starting mid-morning and progress eastward through the day into the evening. Forecasters highlight threats of wind gusts reaching 70-80 mph, hail, and isolated tornadoes, with possible impacts such as structural damage, downed trees and power lines, scattered debris, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions.
“In declaring a State of Preparedness for Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts across state government in advance of the incoming severe storms,” said Gov. Moore. “The safety of Maryland families comes first. I am urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans, including postponing travel, as conditions change. Know the safest room at home or at work, and plan to be indoors before the storm arrives.”
Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland emphasized proactive measures. “We are working with our state and local partners to prepare for potential impacts across Maryland,” Strickland said. “We are planning for the possibility of hazardous conditions which could include debris, downed powerlines, and travel disruptions. Marylanders should make their preparations now by reviewing family emergency plans including where to shelter during a tornado warning, charging personal devices in case of power outages, and signing up for local emergency alerts to stay informed. If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home, and always follow guidance from local officials.”
The declaration facilitates swift information sharing, resource coordination, and activation of the State Emergency Operations Center by the Department of Emergency Management. Multiple agencies, including emergency management, transportation, law enforcement, and public health, are involved in preparations.
Residents face expectations of a line of thunderstorms accompanying the cold front, with primary threats of severe thunderstorms producing damaging wind gusts, hail, and tornadoes. Potential consequences include significant travel delays, widespread power outages, and debris hazards during the storm’s peak.
Official guidance urges immediate shelter-seeking upon a tornado warning issuance. Residents should secure loose outdoor objects, reschedule non-essential activities, monitor official weather updates, prepare emergency kits, establish family shelter plans, keep mobile devices charged, and know utility contact numbers for outages via mdem.maryland.gov. Generators must operate outdoors, at least 20 feet from homes and away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide risks.
For localized forecasts, consult the National Weather Service at weather.gov/lwx. Marylanders can receive alerts and resources by texting MdReady to 211-631 or MdListo for Spanish-language options.
In Southern Maryland, related precautionary steps include school adjustments in neighboring counties like Anne Arundel and Charles, where districts announced two-hour early dismissals on March 16 to prioritize safety amid the tornado threat. A regional outlook noted heightened severe weather risks, including winds, hail, and twisters, affecting areas like Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties.
The declaration and preparations underscore a focus on minimizing risks to life and property as the system approaches.