CAMBRIDGE, MD - In Cambridge and surrounding areas, the wind is not the only concern – flooding is also causing heightened worry. By Tuesday afternoon, the situation had taken a turn for the worse, with floodwaters encroaching on prone areas, steadily rising as residents grapple with the impending threat.
WBOC spoke with individuals across Dorchester County, particularly in Hoopers Island and Cambridge, and the consensus was clear – preparations for the worst were underway. Docks teetered on the verge of being underwater, signs swayed in the relentless wind, and floodwaters crept up Choptank Ave.
Despite familiarity with such challenges, homeowners Julie and Jim remained vigilant, dedicating their day to readying for potential record flooding. "We're expecting the worst. We've lived through our basement flooding before, carrying everything up to the first floor," remarked Jim Brady. Julie Gilberto-Brady added, "We made sure that our chairs and belongings on our dock are tied down tightly. We've also moved our cars up the street."
With resolve, Jim emphasized, "This time we're not fooling around."
On Hoopers Island, flooding took hold early Tuesday afternoon, saturating yards, houses, and ditches. Residents flocked to the local general store to secure essential supplies, recognizing the inevitability of the rising tides and their potential impact on the community.
Paul Ellwood, a Hoopers Island resident, expressed concern, saying, "Just losing power at the most and maybe not getting off the island." Michael Petruzzello echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the unusual combination of 70-mile-per-hour winds and saturated soil, stating, "We don't lose power that often; the power company does a great job, but anything could happen."
Communities prone to flooding were mobilizing all efforts to stay afloat. A specific warning for Cambridge residents is expressed, highlighting the heightened risk of high flooding around 4 a.m. The convergence of rain and high tides poses the greatest threat, urging residents to brace themselves for the potential impact.