FREDERICK, Md. -- Frederick County officials warned residents to remain on high alert as heavy rain and flooding continues to impact the area.
The county is in a state of emergency after 9-10 inches of rain have fallen within the past two days. Officials said the flooding and heavy rain has caused damage and closures throughout the area and remind residents that "this is a serious issue and everybody needs to be mindful." Residents are being urged to minimize water usage because of the state of emergency.
Frederick emergency crews have responded to 37 water rescues as of Thursday afternoon. Two of those rescues happened in close proximity early Thursday morning when two people got trapped inside of their cars in high water in the area of Willowbrook Rd. and Willow Rd. In one of the cases crews had to use a boat to rescue the person. Both people were successfully brought to safety with no injuries within 30 minutes.
" We are very fortunate to not have experienced any loss of life," a Frederick County executive said during a Thursday afternoon press conference.
In addition to water rescues, emergency crews have been dealing with several closures triggered by the water damage and flooding. For the second day straight, MARC trains on the Brunswick line have not been operating due to track damage. This will continue to be an issue for commuters until Monday, officials confirmed.
Flooding and high water has caused nearly 20 roads to shut down in Frederick County. Officials remind drivers not to underestimate the amount of standing water when driving. The following roads are closed:
- Old Middletown Road
- Lime Klin Road
- Catholic Church Road
- Gapland Road
- Bennies Hill Road
- 3205 - 3630 Poffenberger Road RO Corun
- Jefferson Pike
- Saint Marks Road
- Pear Lane
- Hill Road
- Old National Pike
- Nolands Ferry Road
- Michaels Mill Road
- Retreat Road
- Simpsons Mill Road
- Beaver Dam Road
- Pleasant View Road
- Ballenger Creek Pike
- Old Frederick Road and Thurston Road are both closed due to construction.
Frederick County Public Schools announced they will open on a two-hour delay Friday due to severe weather in the area.
Flooding will remain a serious threat potentially into Saturday morning. A Flood Watch will be in effect from Thursday evening through Friday evening. An estimate of 1 to 4 inches of rain is expected to fall between early Friday morning and Friday afternoon. It is highly suggested to keep at least a half of tank of gas in your car in case roads are closed or impassable.
