Governor Moore declares State of Emergency in Western Maryland due to historic flooding
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (DC News Now) — Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency in Western Maryland Thursday in response to historic flooding.
Moore travelled to assess the damage sustained from Tuesday's storm, where over five inches of rain resulted in major floods in Allegany and Garrett Counties.
First responders brace for rising floodwaters along Potomac, Shenandoah rivers
According to the governor's office, this marks the second-highest Georges Creek crest, causing , power and gas line outages, and road closures.
Throughout his visit, Moore stopped by Westernport fire hall, library, local businesses, and Westernport Elementary School, where he assured residents that the State of Maryland will continue working towards the community's full recovery.
Swiftwater rescue teams evacuated over 200 students and faculty from Westernport and George's Creek elementary schools Tuesday afternoon.
On Wednesday, first responders conducted welfare checks, and as of Thursday, crews have shifted their priorities from response to recovery efforts.
No additional flooding is expected.
'After surveying the damage and receiving updates on the work still ahead in Western Maryland, I've declared a State of Emergency to accelerate our response,' said Moore. 'Today, our thoughts are with the Marylanders who have been directly impacted by this storm, and our gratitude is with all of the first responders, crisis managers, and public servants who raised their hands to support our people in a moment of need.'
Congresswoman April McClain Delaney joined Moore in touring the affected areas and commented on the damage she witnessed.
'Being here in Western Maryland today with Governor Moore and seeing the aftermath of the flooding firsthand is overwhelming,' said Delaney. 'You don't fully grasp the scale of it until you're standing here, witnessing it for yourself. We've met families who had to evacuate their homes, and small business owners now facing tough choices. The damage is real, but so is the strength of the people here. We're listening, and we're committed to doing everything in our power to make sure help gets where it's needed.'
Public officials also shared their perspective on the community's response to the flooding.
'This was a serious test for public safety and health, and we responded with urgency,' said Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain. 'Drinking water systems were damaged, homes were flooded, and families were impacted. We acted quickly to confirm that our dams were operating correctly, offer emergency help for contaminated home heating oil tanks, and support safe debris removal. Our focus now is on long-term recovery, guiding infrastructure repairs, fast-tracking permits, and staying close to communities as they rebuild.'
For live updates on Maryland traffic conditions, click here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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