Governor Wes Moore has announced that the State of Maryland will provide $459,375 in financial assistance to Allegany County Government through the Maryland State Disaster Recovery Fund. This funding—the first-ever of its kind in Maryland—is part of a state-led recovery effort to support survivors of the severe flooding that occurred on May 13.
Governor Wes Moore has announced that the State of Maryland will provide $459,375 in financial assistance to Allegany County Government through the Maryland State Disaster Recovery Fund. This funding—the first-ever of its kind in Maryland—is part of a state-led recovery effort to support survivors of the severe flooding that occurred on May 13.
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore has announced that the State of Maryland will provide $459,375 in financial assistance to Allegany County Government through the Maryland State Disaster Recovery Fund. This funding—the first-ever of its kind in Maryland—is part of a state-led recovery effort to support survivors of the severe flooding that occurred on May 13.
“In Maryland, we live mission-first, people always,” said Governor Moore. “These funds will help Marylanders get back on their feet in the wake of historic flooding. Our administration has taken a comprehensive approach to recovery—and we will continue to support our people, uplift our communities, and help Western Maryland bounce back.”
The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) worked closely with Allegany County officials to assess the damage and determine unmet recovery needs. As the damage exceeded local capabilities, the county requested assistance from the newly established State Disaster Recovery Fund.
This fund offers state-assisted financial support to counties and municipalities for essential needs following a disaster. It can be used to support individuals, households, businesses, and local governments with recovery items such as housing, repairs, and personal property replacement.
“Recovery is a whole community effort,” said MDEM Secretary Russell Strickland. “This fund is providing critical support to Allegany County and demonstrating Maryland’s commitment to resilience and recovery.”
Between May 12–14, a stationary low-pressure system over the Ohio River Valley caused extreme rainfall, bringing Georges Creek to a near-record 12.41 feet. The resulting floodwaters devastated parts of Garrett and Allegany Counties, prompting evacuations and causing major damage—especially in the town of Westernport.
Over 200 homes and businesses were affected by the flooding. The newly awarded state funds will go directly toward helping impacted residents rebuild.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support provided by the State of Maryland,” said Allegany County Commission President David J. Caporale. “This award through the Disaster Recovery Program is both timely and impactful. As the first recipients of this program, we are committed to putting these resources to immediate use.”
MDEM continues to coordinate with local and federal partners, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to manage recovery operations and mitigate future flood risks. In addition to state support, volunteer organizations have provided more than $400,000 in cleanup services through the Crisis Cleanup app.
Residents and businesses in Allegany and Garrett Counties may also be eligible for disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA):
Disaster Loan Outreach Center:
103 1st Street, Westernport, MD 21562
Hours:
Westernport
Lonaconing
For more information and real-time updates, visit mdem.maryland.gov and follow MDEM on social media: