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Concerns For Maryland's Low-Lying Communities Ahead Of Hurricane Florence's Impact

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- From the shore to the capital, rain and wind hammered much of the state over the last 48 hours. With Hurricane Florence approaching the East Coast, more storms could be on the way. Florence aims to deal a potentially dangerous blow to states south of Maryland.

In downtown Annapolis, several roads were closed due to flooding Monday morning.

Maryland Gov. Declares State Of Emergency Ahead Of Hurricane Florence

Newman Street was closed at Duke of Gloucester Street, Dock Street was closed and Compromise Street between Memorial Circle and St. Marys St. Eastport was also closed Monday morning.

Business owners near the water, like Sveinn Storm have kept "Closed" signs taped to the windows on Monday. Again, hit with flooding that just won't quit. The owner of the Storm Bros. Ice Cream Factory stating "It would happen once a year, and it was about this time, about hurricane season. Now, it's nonstop."

Traffic is heavy in Annapolis and surrounding roadways as people take detours to get around closures.

City of Annapolis' Communication Officer, Susan O'Brien notes "We always have some serious issues when we combine high tides with precipitation." And if the category four hurricane stats on track, the capital city could see more of both.

"We're just really prepared." O'Brien states. "Our crews are ready. Our emergency teams are meeting with MEMA, and we're going to be ready for whatever comes our way this week through the weekend."

Business owners near the water, like Sveinn Storm have kept "Closed" signs taped to the windows Monday. Again, hit with flooding that just won't quit. The owner of the Storm Bros. Ice Cream Factory stated "It would happen once a year, and it was about this time, about hurricane season. Now, it's nonstop."

Sand dunes piled high in Ocean City overnight as rough surf brought the sand to the boardwalk.

Ocean City Fire Department warned visitors to be careful if headed to the boardwalk.

On Assateague Island, officials closed beach access and the campground at the state park due to 12-foot high waves and dangerous surf Sunday. Officials said the beach would be closed until further notice.

'Dangerous' Surf, 12-Foot Waves Closes Assateague State Park Beach

In Virginia, Old Town Alexandria flooded Sunday and again Monday morning.

WUSA9 reported that the Alexandria Fire Department rescued eight people Sunday night.

Now, all eyes are on Hurricane Florence. With hopes that she'll lose power as she heads east.

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