Annapolis Prepares for Coastal Flood Watch

A coastal flood watch is in effect for Anne Arundel County, particularly during high tide cycles early Thursday and Friday mornings, as a nor'easter approaches offshore. The National Weather Service anticipates minor to moderate coastal flooding in low-lying areas. City Dock in Annapolis is a specific concern, where winds could push water into streets and storm drains, potentially reaching up to 1 foot above dry ground.

In preparation for the potential flooding, a sandbag operation was underway on Compromise Street in downtown Annapolis. This measure was taken out of an abundance of caution to ensure residents and businesses are ready. Even at low tide, some areas like Second Street in Eastport experienced puddling, highlighting the vulnerability to increased water levels during high tide.

Annapolis has a history of flooding, with City Dock, Compromise Street, and Eastport being frequently affected. A significant flooding event in October 2025 submerged City Dock, disrupting traffic and businesses. To address such issues, a $90 million revitalization project at City Dock, initiated shortly after the 2025 event, is ahead of schedule and expected to reopen the main park by July 2027.

For public awareness, the city offers a free app called "Prepare Me Annapolis." This tool provides real-time information on flooding locations and road closures. Authorities strongly advise against driving through barricades or into unknown water depths.