Maryland · Preparedness Guide
Chesapeake Bay storm surge, Appalachian flash floods, nor'easters, and tornadoes — Maryland packs more hazard variety per square mile than almost any other state.
About this guide
Maryland is a geographic paradox — only 12,000 square miles, but it runs from Atlantic barrier islands to Appalachian mountain peaks. The Eastern Shore and Chesapeake Bay shoreline face hurricane surge and chronic tidal flooding that worsens every year with sea level rise. Ellicott City has flooded catastrophically twice in three years (2016 and 2018) from flash floods in the Patapsco River valley. Western Maryland's mountains get serious ice and snow. The DC suburbs sit on the Potomac flood plain and experience nor'easters, derecho events, and the occasional tornado. No part of Maryland is risk-free — the state's small size just means all the hazards are close together.
Local self-reliance starts with knowing your place.
Quick facts
Top hazards: Flooding, Hurricanes & Nor'easters, Tornadoes
MD has expanded Medicaid — adults up to 138% FPL may qualify
USDA hardiness zones: 5b (Garrett County mountains) to 8a (Lower Eastern Shore)
Unemployment: up to $430/week for 26 weeks
Free or low-cost soil testing available through the state extension service
Seven topics, one state
Each section focuses on one question. Find what you need without wading through what you don't.
Official maps and tools for flood, fire, earthquake, water, dam, river, and local hazard awareness.
Am I at risk? →
Find nearby courses, extension programs, and emergency training that build practical skills.
Where do I learn? →
Connect with local gatherings, neighbor-help efforts, civic groups, and community support networks.
What's happening near me? →
Find official alerts, emergency agencies, trauma centers, and crisis-response information near you.
Who do I call? →
Use local frost dates, planting zones, soil data, extension calendars, and composting guidance.
What can I grow? →
Find food, utility, health, unemployment, and 211 resources before hardship becomes crisis.
Where can I find help? →
Find your county transit provider, demand-response ride service, and carpool matching options.
How do I get around? →
Simple step-by-step preparedness checklists for your home, family, garden, documents, and local risks.
What do I do next? →
Get specific
Enter your ZIP code to see real-time weather alerts, drought conditions, FEMA disaster declarations, and county-level resources.
Next steps
Know your risks
Flood zones, hazard maps, and the MD risks that apply to your county.
Local Risk ReadinessBuild the basics
The universal first step — before you personalize, get the 72-hour foundation in place.
First 72 Hours