After clicking the button above you will be directed to the KnowYourZone Map.

Know Your Zone The COVID-19 global pandemic is affecting how we prepare for hurricane season. Now more than ever, we ask all Maryland residents to be prepared for hurricane season. COVID-related information is noted in yellow on this page. All You Have To Do Is Know Your Zone Step 1: Click the 'Find Your Zone' button, Step 2: Enter your Address on the map,

Step 3: See your zone in the search results, Step 4: Evacuate your zone if told to do so by local officials.





What Is It? Know Your Zone is a new color-coded interactive map you can use to determine which storm evacuation zone you live in based upon your street address. How Will It Help You? Knowing your zone will help you avoid unnecessary evacuation travel, thereby reducing highway congestion, easing overcrowding at local storm shelters and boosting public safety. How Do You Use It? Simply click the 'Find Your Zone" button. Enter your address on the map and view your color-coded evacuation zone. Emergency managers will work with local media and use social media and other tools to notify residents of impacted zones and what to do to stay safe.



How To Use Know Your Zone (Video)









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To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland during this hurricane season and beyond, text "MdReady" to 898211.

Know About Hurricanes A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone or severe tropical storm that can be accompanied by thunderstorms. Hurricanes have sustained winds of at least 74 miles per hour and an area of low air pressure in the center called the eye. Hurricanes are given a category—1 through 5—based on wind speed. The higher the winds, the higher the category. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak occurring between mid-August and late October.

There are four main threats that hurricanes bring, which are: Storm surge and tidal flooding

Flooding rains

Hazardous wind

Tornadoes

Torrential rains cause further damage by causing floods and landslides, which not only threaten coastal communities but may impact communities many miles inland.

Learn More About Hurricane Emergencies



Many people are under financial and psychological stress because of COVID-19, and the start of hurricane season can add to that stress. One way to alleviate some stress is to prepare ahead and plan for things you can control.If an evacuation order is issued during the COVID-19 pandemic, you must leave based on your evacuation zone. The immediate threat to life from a hurricane is more severe than the potential exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Marylanders are understandably concerned about exposing themselves to COVID-19 during evacuation and there are also ways to protect ourselves and those around us. To the best of your ability and greatest extent possible, do the following while evacuated: Practice social distancing by staying at least 6 feet away from other people.

Wear face coverings and know how to use them properly.

Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer during transit.

Disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly.

Avoid touching your face.



Know About Hurricane Evacuation In Maryland Make sure you have a plan if you need to evacuate, prepare a disaster supply kit to the best of your ability, and follow up-to-date weather information. You should also make sure the supply kit has adequate masks and hand sanitizer for everyone in your evacuation group.

Read the Complete Hurricane Evacuation Guide (PDF)





During the COVID-19 pandemic, your kit should also include 2 face coverings per person, hand sanitizer, and disinfectants.



Know How To Make An Emergency Kit Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find. Many of these items may already be in your home and any one of them could save your life.

Learn More About Emergency Kits



Know How To Recover From A Hurricane Flooding and debris from forceful winds are often the deadly and destructive results of a Hurricane. As you return home and begin the recovery phase, keep these safety tips in mind.

Learn Hurricane Recovery Tips



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"As experts are forecasting an active Hurricane season this year, I strongly encourage all Marylanders to be proactive, prepared, and to Know Your Zone,” said Governor Hogan. “We are all too familiar with the devastating impacts of severe weather and flooding, so remain vigilant, spread the word to your friends, family, neighbors and let them know about the importance of this potentially life-saving initiative.” ~ Larry Hogan,

Governer of Maryland "Remember, it only takes one storm to change your life. I urge you to please, Know Your Zone, know what to do in case of an emergency, and know the resources available to you to help you in the recovery process. This information and important resources are available for you in this website and through our Hurricane Evacuation Guide. Thank you for visiting our Know Your Zone site and for playing a role in making a better, more resilient, and more prepared Maryland." ~ Russell Strickland, Executive Director,

Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Back to top ^