SMITH ISLAND, MD - The Somerset County Emergency Services has announced a voluntary evacuation of Smith Island and other flood-prone areas within Somerset County in anticipation of the approaching potential tropical storm.
Somerset Emergency Services says Natural Resources Police will be present at the County Dock in Ewell at 2 p.m. and at Tylerton at 2:30 p.m. to assist any who wish to leave Smith Island.
Washington High School in Princess Anne will open as a shelter beginning at 6 p.m Friday, according to Emergency Services. Pets will be permitted, and owners are asked to bring their shot records, medications, and/or crates.
Transportation to the shelter has been arranged at the following locations at 5 p.m.:
-Crisfield Fire Department (a stop will also be made at Marion Fire Dept. around 5:30 p.m.)
-Fairmount Fire Department
-Deal Island Fire Department
-Mt. Vernon Fire Department
Those who wish to use the shelter are asked to bring blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, medications, and personal hygiene items. Those with special dietary restrictions are also asked to bring their own supplies.
More information can be provided at 410-651-0707.
Smith Island joins the numerous local communities preparing for the arrival of Potential Tropical Cyclone 16, which may develop into Tropical Storm Ophelia.