Ellicott City, Maryland devastated by flooding once again

ELLICOTT CITY, Md. - Maryland Governor Larry Hogan declared a State of Emergency Sunday as flash floods caused devastating conditions in Ellicott City, Maryland for the second time in two years. Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman said the damage sustained Sunday is worse than what the city saw in 2016.

The historic area of Main Street was affected by severe flooding on July 31, 2016. Two people lost their lives as their cars were swept into the Patapsco River back then. Dozens of local businesses and hundreds of cars were destroyed as a result of the floods.

On Sunday, Gov. Hogan came to Ellicott City to assess the damage, along with Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford and County Executive Kittleman. Hogan signed an executive order, directing Maryland Department of Emergency Management and other state agencies to provide support.

Thankfully, officials say there have been no reported deaths or injuries as a result of the floods.

Days ago, Gov. Hogan announced that Howard County would get just over $1 million from FEMA that would fund a storm drain project that will reduce the flood risk of areas surrounding Ellicott City's Main Street.

The National Weather Service says radar estimates that rainfall amounts rose over 7 inches for the area, exceeding 9 inches in parts. FOX 5's Mike Thomas says flooding was further affected by the continued rain and wet weather that has been affecting the region for the past 10 days.

The National Weather Service says a Flash Flood Warning remains in effect for Anne Arundel, Howard, and Baltimore, and Carroll Counties, and a Flood Warning is in effect for Prince George's and Calvert Counties.

The Maryland Eastern Shore is under a Flash Flood Watch until 4 a.m. Monday, as storms and rain move through central Maryland to areas east and northeast.

Multiple area fire and rescue crews, including Montgomery and Prince George's Counties, worked to help people stranded in their homes in the area. Some people had to evacuate to the roofs of buildings until first responders could come to their aid.

Governor Hogan said state and local rescue workers, as well as law enforcement, will be working throughout the night to help those in need in Ellicott City. He asks that those in the area stay off roads.

Howard County Fire and EMS said there were reports of building collapses in the area and a gas leak broke out, BGE said, causing an evacuation of the west end of Main Street.

County Executive Kittleman urged people not to come to the devastated town while locals now work to clean up damage and make repairs.

Those affected by the storm who are in need of non-emergency assistance can call Howard County Police Dept at (410) 313-2200.

Ellicott City officials say Roger Carter Community and Howard County Recreation Centers are open for those that need a place to shelter. Additionally, the Howard County food bank says it will accept donations for Ellicott City Flood Relief on Monday from 10 a.m. 2 p.m. They say water and cleaning supplies are of items most in need.

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