Severe Weather Causes Major Power Outages Across Maryland

Michael

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Post on Jun 20, 2025

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Severe Weather Causes Major Power Outages Across Maryland

Maryland, October 26, 2023 – Powerful winds and torrential rain lashed across Maryland yesterday, leaving a trail of destruction and plunging hundreds of thousands into darkness. The severe weather, described by the National Weather Service as a "fast-moving, powerful storm system," caused widespread power outages impacting homes and businesses throughout the state. This is the largest power outage event in Maryland in over five years.

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Widespread Impact and Damage

The storm, which swept across the state in the late afternoon and evening, brought down power lines, uprooted trees, and caused significant flooding in several areas. Preliminary reports suggest that over 300,000 homes and businesses experienced power loss, with the hardest-hit areas including Baltimore, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Images and videos circulating on social media show submerged roads, downed trees blocking streets, and widespread damage to infrastructure.

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Utility Companies Respond to Emergency

Local power companies, including BGE (Baltimore Gas and Electric) and Pepco Holdings, immediately mobilized crews to assess the damage and begin restoration efforts. However, the scale of the damage and the challenging weather conditions are hindering progress. BGE reported on their website that they are working around the clock to restore power, but warned that some areas may remain without electricity for several days. Pepco has activated their emergency response plan and are prioritizing critical infrastructure such as hospitals and emergency services.

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Safety Precautions and Emergency Resources

Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and remain aware of their surroundings. With many traffic lights out of service, drivers are advised to proceed with extreme caution and treat all intersections as four-way stops. Residents should avoid downed power lines and report any damage to local authorities. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has activated its emergency operations center and is coordinating with local agencies to provide assistance to those affected. You can find helpful resources and updates on the MEMA website: [link to MEMA website].

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Preparing for Future Storms

This severe weather event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for potential power outages. Experts recommend having an emergency preparedness kit that includes:

• Flashlights and extra batteries: Avoid using candles due to fire hazards.
• A battery-powered radio: Stay updated on weather alerts and emergency announcements.
• First-aid kit: Be ready for minor injuries.
• Non-perishable food and water: Stock up on enough supplies to last several days.
• Warm clothing and blankets: Protect yourself from the cold, especially during overnight outages.

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The Road to Recovery

The full extent of the damage caused by this severe weather event is still being assessed. The restoration of power is expected to take several days, and the cleanup process will likely extend beyond that. While the immediate aftermath is challenging, the resilience of the Maryland community will undoubtedly shine through as residents and utility companies work together to overcome this significant hurdle. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops. We encourage you to share your experiences and photos responsibly on social media using the hashtag #MarylandStorm.