Parts of OCMD flooded from storm, town urges caution

As heavy rain and strong winds pounded Ocean City on Thursday, several roads and sidewalks experienced flooding.

As of 5 p.m. Thursday, no roads were officially shut down; however, the coastal town was under the umbrella of Maryland beaches placed under a “flash flood watch” by the National Weather Service.

Jessica Waters, communications manager for the town of Ocean City, tells 47ABC the best thing for motorists was to exercise caution on the roads.

“Most important what we want people to know is when you see those areas with standing water, do not drive through it,” says Waters.

According to Waters, roads that were affected the worst included parts of downtown, St. Louis Avenue and Caroline Street.

The minor flooding, as she describes it, is not a surprise to some given the town’s sea level.

New Jersey resident Jeffrey Valdes is renting a town home on St. Louis Avenue for the weekend for the H20 International car show.

“Honestly I expected it. It was a lot worse last year. We went outside in our bathing suits and we were swimming in the street,” says Valdes.

While Waters says the flooded roads do not pose a major threat right now, she also explains the town is prepared should conditions worsen.

“We’re certainly watching it, our emergency management is watching it and we would encourage anyone watching tonight to continue to watch the weather,” she explains.

As for Valdes, it’s about making the best of a situation.

“Nobody’s car got hurt, we’re parked on high ground. Garage is on high ground, we’re okay,” he says.

Aside from taking extra precaution on the road, the town is also recommending folks to know which flood zone their homes and businesses are in.

To find your flood zone, click here.