Moderate Risk Maryland  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Frederick County MD

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
278
Area
663
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
6
federally declared

Frederick County in western Maryland along the Monocacy River faces moderate tornado risk and serious flooding. The Monocacy River created catastrophic flooding during Ida in 2021 and has flooded Frederick communities historically. Fort Detrick in Frederick is home to the US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases — the primary US biodefense research facility — and the National Cancer Institute creating unique bioresearch emergency planning requirements.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 5 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Monocacy River Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 6
Last Major Event Ida 2021
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (301) 600-1600
Emergency Shelters 12 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-70 US-15 MD-355 MD-26

// County Profile

County Frederick County MD
State Maryland (MD)
Population 278
Area 663 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Major Cities

Frederick MD

// Cities in This County

// Other Maryland Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

USAMRIID Fort Detrick Maryland
Military Installation  ·  Frederick, MD  ·  US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases  ·  2-mi risk zone
9/10 Critical

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.