Harford Taps Real-Time Weather Data To Strengthen Emergency Response

Three locations in Harford County have joined the Maryland Mesonet, giving county emergency officials access to more localized, real-time weather data to help prepare for and respond to severe weather.

The network’s weather stations, known as mesonet towers, measure conditions including temperature, wind speed and direction, rainfall, and soil moisture. Harford County Emergency Services can use the information to monitor changing conditions and make more informed decisions before and during weather-related emergencies. The statewide network also allows emergency management officials to track conditions elsewhere in Maryland as weather systems approach the county. For example, elevated soil moisture in an area ahead of significant rainfall could indicate a greater risk of flooding, allowing first responders to pre-position resources and potentially reduce response times.

From the news story:

“These weather stations provide critical information during storms and other hazardous situations,” said Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly. “The more information we have, the better prepared we will be to protect the citizens of Harford County.”

Harford County now has three mesonet towers positioned across the jurisdiction. The newest was installed in July at Youth’s Benefit Elementary School in Fallston, joining stations at the County’s public works facility in Whiteford and Abingdon Fire Company’s House 3 in Edgewood. Together, the locations provide data from the county’s northern, western/central, and southern portions.