Maryland State Wire

ANNAPOLIS –– Gov. Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency on in preparation for Hurricane Florence.

Hogan signed the order so the state could coordinate support and provide assistance with other neighboring states, as well as local Maryland communities.

While Florence is projected to make landfall in the south, the hurricane already caused large swells on Maryland's coast, which prompted a shut down of beach access indefinitely. 

While there is uncertainty about where the storm will make landfall, Hogan said Maryland must prepare for any possible outcome, including catastrophic flooding.

"Our state is taking every precaution, and I urge all Marylanders to do the same," Hogan said in a statement. "Stay tuned to your local news stations for the latest updates, listen to state and local authorities, and most importantly, use common sense."

Weather forecasters are indicating that there may be torrential rains, tropical storm force winds and tidal flooding in Maryland as early as Thursday.

Maryland's Emergency Operations Center Response Level has been elevated. The center is now fully staffed with personnel to assist in emergency management.

Maryland Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Russell Strickland said the state of emergency means that residents should remain alert and listen for news and weather forecasts to remain informed regarding Florence.

"We encourage all residents and visitors to our state to visit KnowYourZoneMD.com to see if they are inside, or if they are traveling to, a hurricane evacuation zone," Strickland said in a statement.

Maryland's state of emergency means other states can provide assistance via the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. It also gives Hogan access to critical resources, like the Maryland National Guard.

The executive order authorizes all appropriate state authorities, such as Maryland Emergency Management Agency and the Maryland State Police, to activate emergency preparedness plans.