Harford County residents are dealing with heavy rain, gusty winds, and a small but real tornado risk Sunday as the remnants of Hurricane Isaias push through Maryland.
What’s happening: The Harford County Department of Emergency Services issued an alert just after noon Sunday warning residents to expect rough conditions throughout the day. “Rain is expected to continue throughout the day, with up to 2 inches possible as well as wind gusts around 30 mph,” the alert said. “This could lead to standing water or flooded roads. Please use caution when driving.”
The full picture: Rainfall totals across Harford County will generally run 1 to 2 inches, though some spots could see up to 3 inches. Wind gusts of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with stronger gusts possible in open or exposed areas. No hurricane-force winds are expected. The storm arrived late Saturday night and conditions are expected to improve by Monday.
Several rounds of heavy rain are possible into Sunday evening, and isolated thunderstorms could linger into early Monday morning. Sunday’s high temperature is near 66 degrees, with a 99% chance of rain.
Tornado risk: The National Weather Service has identified a low but real isolated tornado threat for Sunday. Harford County falls within that risk zone. The chance is not high, but it is not zero.
If you live near the Havre de Grace waterfront: Residents there face specific concerns beyond the general storm. Tidal water levels could rise, roads near the water could flood, and isolated severe thunderstorms are possible. Officials are urging those residents to monitor tidal levels closely.
What to watch for:
- Standing water and flooded roads, especially in low-lying areas and spots with poor drainage.
- Downed tree limbs and possible isolated power outages from gusty winds.
- Isolated severe thunderstorms, particularly Sunday afternoon and evening.
What this means for you: Avoid low-lying roads if possible. Move anything outside that could blow around in 30 mph gusts. Check drainage areas near your home. If you live near the Havre de Grace waterfront, keep an eye on tidal levels. Have a plan ready in case severe weather develops.
The path forward: Conditions are expected to improve Monday. The National Weather Service had been tracking and increasing its concern about the storm’s impacts since Friday. Elsewhere in Maryland, Annapolis and Anne Arundel County face a coastal flood watch Sunday afternoon and evening, with water near City Dock potentially rising up to one foot above ground level. In western Garrett County, wind gusts up to 50 mph were possible Saturday night into Sunday morning.