Annapolis Prepares For Flooding Ahead Of Isaias' Arrival

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Annapolis residents spent Monday preparing for the arrival of Isaias, which strengthened into a hurricane on Monday evening.

A tropical storm warning has already been issued for Anne Arundel County and the county is also under a flash flood watch. A coastal flood warning has been issued for low-lying coastal areas.

Tracking Isaias: Tropical Storm, Coastal Flood Warnings In Effect For Parts Of Maryland

The city opened a build-your-own sandbag operation at Truxtun Park at 10 a.m. Monday. It ran until 4 p.m., with numerous residents bagging their own sand to prepare for Isaias.

"We have a lot going on in Annapolis right now, but for our residents, safety is the top priority," Acting Mayor Rhonda Pindell Charles said. "We encourage those in low-lying areas to come pick up the necessary sandbags to protect their homes and their families. We want people to stay safe in the City of Annapolis."

Upon arrival at the Truxtun Park Pool, 251 Pump House Road, residents and business owners were asked to show identification. Bags were limited to 10 per resident or business owner.

At this time, Annapolis has no plans to evacuate or open emergency shelters, though the Hillman Garage behind City Hall opened up as a place for people who live in low-lying areas to move their vehicles.

"Tropical Storm Isaias will be impacting our Annapolis community in the next 24 hours. It's time to pull out your hurricane kits, review your plan, and remember COVID-19 is still with us," said Office of Emergency Management Director Kevin J. Simmons. "Wear your mask, wash your hands, and physical distance as much as possible."

Officials also remind motorists to not drive through high water.

The city is also asking people to put trash cans out by 6 a.m. Tuesday, adding extra crews will be on hand to pick up trash as quickly as possible.

WJZ's weather team said the worst part of the storm will be between dawn and 2 p.m. Tuesday.

TIMELINE: When Will Isaias Reach Maryland?

Annapolis City officials tell residents to prepare with these tips:

• Being prepared means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
• Create or restock your emergency kit with the following items:
  • First Aid Kit and medications.
  • Canned food and can opener.
  • At least three gallons of water per person.
  • Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags.
  • Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
  • Pet food and supplies.
  • Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members.
• Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise (a professional should turn them back on).
• Check any storm drains adjacent to your property to see if the grates are clogged and need to be cleaned. Removing the debris will help reduce the possibility of street flooding.
• Secure any loose objects, such as outdoor furniture, plants, or lawn ornaments that could become a projectile.

The Annapolis Call Center is activated 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. to answer non-emergency inquiries from the public. The Call Center number is 410-260-2211. For any questions or concerns after 5 p.m., please call the Office of Emergency Management at 410-216-9167.

Stay up-to-date with the latest forecast by downloading the WJZ weather app.

In:
• Flooding
• Anne Arundel County