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June 2, 2022
Dear Subscriber,
Hurricane season has started and typically runs through November. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting another above-normal hurricane season this year for the Atlantic Basin, which includes Maryland. This would be the seventh consecutive year for an above-average number of hurricanes. NOAA is predicting between 14 and 21 tropical storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which six to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including three to six major hurricanes (Category Three, Four, or Five, with winds of 111 mph or higher). The 30-year average for the Atlantic Basin is 14 storms of which seven become hurricanes, and three become major hurricanes.
Please review and, if necessary, update your Hurricane Preparedness Plans. The Maryland Department of Transportation-Maryland Port Administration’s Marine Terminals Hurricane Preparedness Plan can be found on its website: https://mpa.maryland.gov/Documents/Hurricane_Preparedness_Plan_for_Marine_Terminals_2022_Final.pdf
The MDOT MPA Marine Terminal Hurricane Preparedness Plan provides guidance on procedures that should be implemented in preparation for a significant weather event. It is essential that all port users and tenants also have their own plans that are appropriate for their businesses.
For vessel owners and/or operators, please note Section II.B.5, Safe Refuge, of the MDOT MPA Schedule 20 A. By requesting permission to remain at an MDOT MPA terminal through the submission of the Commercial Vessel Authorization Checklist/Survey, the owner/operator of the vessel is acknowledging that it is subject to the MDOT MPA Schedule 20 A, Section II.B.5, Safety Refuge, and confirms the terms by which the vessel will be allowed to remain at an MDOT MPA terminal.
Any questions, please contact the MDOT MPA Office of Safety and Risk Management, (410) 633-1148.
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