OCEAN CITY, Md. - Ocean City was one of the first places on the shore to evacuate last year, during Hurricane Irene. Now officials tell WMDT they're keeping a close watch on the bays and beaches.
The beach town is known to flood on any given rainy day, but with the storm heading our way, emergency preparations have already begun.
"It's time to practice what we preach. Have a three day supply of food and water, have your kit together, be able to handle anything that takes place in the city so you're self sufficient," said Director of Emergency Services, Joseph Theobold.
Several factors could change the entire picture. Meteorologists are predicting about 14 foot waves, several feet of storm surge which could come right up the beaches, not to mention a full moon that's expected to bring high tide. All of that could be a recipe for disaster.
"The biggest issue is the back bays and how much water is going to be retained and not be able to empty out between the tide cycles," said Theobold.
Residents don't seem too worried.
"In the next couple of days, we'll make sure our outside things are put away lawn furniture and plants and things," said a local resident.
However, tourists say they're packing up and heading home.
"If they evacuate we wouldn't have a choice we have to go home," said Gloria Payne from Littlestown, PA.
With high winds and heavy rains expected, power outages are likely. For now, there's no plans for evacuation.
To get the latest updates on what's happening in Ocean City, officials suggest checking into Facebook and Twitter. You can always call the Emergency Management Hotline at 410-723-6666.
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