Maryland Residents, Especially Those In Coastal Cities, Brace For Hurricane Sandy
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ)-- Maryland's coastal cities are on edge, waiting and watching for Hurricane Sandy. Annapolis is one of those towns. Gigi Barnett explains final hours of preparation are winding down.
Annapolis has seen its share of storms over the years. Now, with a monster storm like Sandy threatening the Mid-Atlantic, coastal cities are on high alert and preparations for the hurricane is underway in the state's capital.
"Just getting ready for a flood if that happens," said one resident.
Anne Arundel County government has announced that it would be closing its offices on Monday and only essential personnel will be working. Trash collection has also been canceled for the day.
Emergency Plans Activated Across Md. As Hurricane Sandy Makes Its Way To The East Coast
Businesses and homeowners aren't taking any chances.
The Annapolis Marine Art Gallery has seen its share of storm damages before.
"In 2003, Isabel flooded our place of business and it was about waist-high," said Jeff Schaub. "There's a chance we'll have to replace all of the sheet rock. There's a chance we'll have to replace all of the carpet but that's one of those things."
As the evening goes on, the rain will intensify.
Related Story: BGE Urges Customers To Prepare For Possible Outages Ahead Of Hurricane Sandy
Back in 2003, Hurricane Isabel turned streets into waterways here. Last year, Hurricane Irene left her mark, as well.
"Just ride it out," one resident said.
Related Story: Worcester County Orders Evacuation Of Waterfront Homes
The Taylor family was in town for a wedding. The event is on a fast track to start and end; their vacation is now cut short.
"We made preparations before we left---cleaned gutters, got things out of the way that may be thrown around by wind and we're just hoping that when we get home tonight, everything will be fine," said Susan Taylor.
Annapolis residents can learn more about how to prepare for Hurricane Sandy by clicking here.
Anne Arundel County leaders say they're thinking ahead, too. An emergency shelter at Annapolis High School opened Sunday and emergency workers sent robocall messages to residents warning them of flood-prone areas.
