Baltimore Vulnerable To Severe Weather-Related Power Problems

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The change in climate could cause blackouts in cities along the eastern coast.

Tracey Leong explains why Baltimore is at a greater risk and when we could see power outages.

Researches believe Baltimore is vulnerable to severe weather-related power problems.

Sky Eye Chopper 13 captures the aftermath of the derecho in the summer of 2012. It was one of the most destructive thunderstorms to rip through Maryland.

"I never saw this type of wind blow up before, pretty wicked," a local man said.

Many are unprepared for the wrath of Mother Nature. Now, scientists at Johns Hopkins University want to warn people there's potential for more havoc.

Researchers say climate change will intensify storms, increasing the chances of power outages in Baltimore by 15 to 20 percent.

"Stronger hurricanes will have strong wind speeds and these higher wind speeds are likely to knock down more power lines, knock down more trees and cause more power outages," JHU PhD student, Andrea Staid said.

Researchers predict that Baltimore could see a greater risk for power outages in the next 10 to 20 years.

"I think it's a concern for everybody" Baltimore resident, Mary Love said.

The thought of being left in the dark has some on edge, but it's a prediction not all are buying.

"I worry about the things that have happened and how they are going to effect people," Baltimore resident, Alonzo Lamont said. "Not worrying about things like 20 years there's going to be a power outage... I may not be here."

The derecho can serve as a reminder for how relentless weather can be. Researches say communities need to brace for the worst.

"I think it's inevitable with the change in weather and we need to be prepared," a local man said.

"This is a way to get out in front of that and say we might want to be prepared for even more in the future so we are ready when it comes," JHU associate professor, Seth Geuikema said.

Researchers say the best ways to prepare include having an emergency plan and kit as well as a generator when a power outage occurs.

Scientists have been working with power companies to be proactive.

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