Tropical Storm Debby: Moore Signs Preparedness Declaration As Storm Nears MD

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Gov. Wes Moore on Tuesday issued a state of preparedness declaration as remnants of Tropical Storm Debby are expected to bring multiple days of heavy rainfall and storms to Maryland.

Debby brought prolonged downpours and flooding to the southeastern United States on Tuesday and is expected to hover over the Atlantic Ocean for the next few days, then boomerang back onto the mainland, leading to potentially record-setting rainfall.

• RELATED: Tropical Storm Debby: Latest Forecast For MD Impacts

The storm is forecast to move relatively slowly across some of America's most historic Southern cities in Georgia and South Carolina before moving northeastward across eastern North Carolina and Virginia later this week, the National Weather Service said in its latest forecast.

While the storm's track remains uncertain, Moore said the system could bring heavy rain, winds, and inland and tidal flooding to parts of Maryland.

"The safety of Marylanders is our top priority," Moore said in a statement Tuesday afternoon. "By declaring a State of Preparedness, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby."

Moore continued, "Residents and visitors should monitor local weather forecasts, remain vigilant, and be prepared to follow safety instructions from local emergency officials."

A state of preparedness declaration directs state emergency management officials to coordinate with other government agencies to better respond to hazards and threats ahead of an actual disaster.

In the order, state officials encouraged Marylanders to prepare for Debby's possible arrival by doing the following:

• Encourage your family and friends to finish preparedness activities now. Check on your neighbors — especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance — to make sure they have what they need. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
• You may have to evacuate quickly due to a storm if you live in an evacuation zone. To learn if you live or work in an evacuation zone in Maryland, please visit this Know Your Zone page.
• Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay.
• Follow instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state and local agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
• Keep your cell phone, tablet and laptop charged when you know a storm is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
• Have enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your evacuation bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.

To receive alerts, tips and resources related to threats and hazards affecting Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.