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Maryland · Risk Readiness
What's actually likely where you live.
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what Maryland throws at different parts of the state.
See MD hazardsMD hazard profile
Primary hazards. Ranked.
Maryland floods in more ways than almost any other state. Chesapeake Bay surge from hurricanes and nor'easters. Flash flooding in urban stream valleys — Ellicott City flooded to 6-foot depths in 2016 and again in 2018. Tidal flooding in Annapolis, Cambridge, and Crisfield is now routine — 'sunny day flooding' from king tides happens without any storm. Maryland's Chesapeake Bay funnel amplifies storm surge from both directions. Hurricane Isabel (2003) pushed 8-foot surge into Annapolis. Nor'easters — winter coastal storms — bring heavy snow, ice, and surge to the Eastern Shore and Bay shores from October through April. Sandy (2012) hit Maryland hard despite making landfall in New Jersey. Maryland averages 5 tornadoes per year — modest by national standards but concentrated in a small, densely populated state. The suburbs of Washington and Baltimore have seen significant tornado events. Spring and fall are the peak seasons.
Flooding
Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
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Hurricanes & tropical storms
Direct landfalls and tropical moisture bring catastrophic wind, surge, and inland flooding.
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Tornadoes
Occur across most of the state, often embedded in severe thunderstorm lines and tropical systems.
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Winter ice & snow storms
Ice accumulation causes prolonged power outages and road closures across the state.
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Heat waves
Extreme heat events endanger vulnerable residents and stress power infrastructure.
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Official tools
Look up your address. Know your risk.
FEMA Flood Zone Lookup
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
USGS Earthquake Map
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Wildfire Risk Score
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
River Gauges
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Drought Monitor
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Private Well Resources
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
What your homeowner's policy doesn't cover.
Standard homeowner's policies in Maryland exclude flood damage. Flood insurance through the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period — it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast. Check your declarations page annually to confirm your coverage limits and deductibles.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
Where do you want to go next?
During an emergency
Find alerts, contacts, and shelters.
NC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Run through the MD checklist.
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to Maryland.
MD Checklists