Western Maryland Flood Damage Estimated to be Over $33 Million, Governor Appeals FEMA Denial of Federal Aid

Strategic Insights -

The recent flash flood in Western Maryland, which occurred in May, has caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and schools in Allegany and Garrett counties. The cost of the damage was initially estimated at $15.8 million, but state officials have found an additional $17.9 million in costs related to the flooding, bringing the total estimate to $33.7 million. Governor Wes Moore has appealed the denial of federal aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in a letter to President Donald Trump, citing the need for FEMA Public Assistance.

Key Takeaways:

  • The estimated cost of damage from the flash flood in Western Maryland has more than doubled, from $15.8 million to $33.7 million, with $17.9 million in additional costs related to the flooding.
  • Governor Wes Moore has appealed the denial of federal aid from FEMA in a letter to President Donald Trump, citing the need for FEMA Public Assistance.
  • The flood damaged public infrastructure, homes, and schools in Allegany and Garrett counties, including Westernport Elementary School, which suffered severe first-floor flood damage and is still in need of a working heating system.
  • The average temperature in the area in September is 66 degrees, and without a working heating system, students attending classes on upper floors will be uncomfortable.
  • The state and counties are working together to improve data collection using existing weather stations in the area to better forecast and monitor severe weather trends.
  • The governor's letter to President Trump emphasizes the need for post-disaster mitigation to reduce future financial burden of property and infrastructure damage, and to help Allegany and Garrett counties recover faster and take a more proactive stance towards disaster preparedness.

Statistics:

  • Initial estimated cost of damage: $15.8 million
  • Additional estimated costs related to the flooding: $17.9 million
  • Total estimated cost of damage: $33.7 million
  • Average temperature in the area in September: 66 degrees
  • Number of counties affected: 2 (Allegany and Garrett)
  • Number of schools damaged: 1 (Westernport Elementary School)

Sources:

  • (https://marylandmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/State-of-Maryland-Major-Disaster-Declaration-Request.pdf)
  • (https://marylandmatters.org/2025/07/28/moore-fema-denial-of-aid-to-western-maryland-is-petty-partisan-and-punishing/)
  • (https://marylandmatters.org/donate/?oa_referrer=midstorybox)
  • (https://marylandmatters.org/2025/07/24/lawmakers-call-denial-of-disaster-assistance-for-western-maryland-floods-a-gut-punch/)