Mandatory Evacuations Declared in Worcester County

Worcester County Government has ordered a mandatory evacuation no later than Saturday, August 27, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. in the following areas: all properties in the West Ocean City Sanitary Service Area (east of Herring Creek and north of Old Bridge Road); all properties east of MD Route 611 (Stephen Decatur Highway); and all properties in South Point (both sides of South Point Road). This includes the communities of Cape Isle of Wight, West Ocean City, Mystic Harbour, Snug Harbor, Assateague Point, Frontier Town Camp Ground, Castaways and others.

No sewer service will be available in the West Ocean City Sanitary Service Area beginning Saturday afternoon.

Furthermore, the County Commissioners strongly recommend evacuation of the following areas: all waterfront properties throughout Worcester County, due to flooding, and all occupants of mobile homes due to the arrival of hurricane force winds and gusts of 100 miles per hour beginning Saturday and continuing through Sunday morning.

County shelters will open at 5:00 p.m. tonight, August 26, 2011. These shelters include Stephen Decatur High School, Stephen Decatur Middle School (SDMS), Snow Hill High School and Pocomoke High School (PHS).

Residents are encouraged to seek shelter with family and friends outside the area, if possible. Shelters will be crowded and should be sought as a last resort. Cots will not be available at general shelters, so those planning to reside in these facilities are urged to bring pillows, comforters, medical supplies and other needed items.

Pet friendly shelters include SDMS, PHS and Worcester County Animal Control. Domestic animals, dogs, cats and ferrets, may be housed at these locations. Those seeking shelter for their pets at either SDMS or PHS must remain at the facility where their animal is housed. The following items are needed to house pets at any of the pet-friendly shelters: carriers, food and water, which are mandatory for all pets; proof of vaccination, pet litter, litter pans and medications as needed

Further county advisories and actions for Hurricane Irene will be announced as more information becomes available, including the possibility of mandatory evacuations in areas currently being recommended for evacuation.

Do not call 911. These lines are strictly for emergencies. For additional emergency information, call the information line at (410) 632-2751 or visit www.co.worcester.md.us.