Storm Emergency Information
The July 12, 2022 Storm
The storm on Tuesday, 7/12/22 caused extensive damage throughout College Park; the Lakeland area was particularly hit hard by the storm. Estimates indicate peak wind gusts as high as 90 mph swept through areas of College Park taking down trees and causing structural damage to several homes.
Hundreds of trees throughout the City are estimated to have been damaged or fallen, many of which fell by the roots. Thankfully, there have been no serious injuries reported.
City staff and crews worked around the clock that week to clear roads to make them passable and accessible. The City was in constant communication with Pepco, Prince George’s County, University of Maryland, neighboring municipalities, and State representatives to help with clean-up efforts, and provide help and resources to affected residents. The City worked continuously with Pepco to restore power as quickly as possible to our residents. Cooling centers with charging stations were designated at nearby facilities, including the City’s Youth and Family Services and City Hall, to help those without power.
While much of the debris has been cleared, cleanup efforts still continue. We are grateful to our community for coming together during this time of need, and showing the region (and the nation) the strength of the College Park community.
Thank you College Park.
Woody Yard Waste Requirements Waived through August 15
Department of Public Works crews continue work to clean up debris caused by the severe weather event.
Due to the excessive amount of woody debris created by the storm, the requirements to prepare debris for curbside collection are being expanded for large diameter branches & limbs, which should be cut into lengths 8 feet or less. Place material at the curb, not in the street and set away from poles, wires, trees, fire hydrants and vehicles for easier collection.
The revised requirement for collection of woody material will be effective until August 15, 2022.
Contact the Department of Public Works (publicworks@collegeparkmd.gov or call 240-487-3590) to request a pick-up. Please inform the Department what size material needs to be collected, as this will dictate the equipment sent to perform the collection.
Waiver for Tree Permitting Requirements for 7-12 storm related damage
If you have a fallen or damaged tree on your property because of the severe weather event on 7-12-2022, you can remove the tree or fallen branches without a permit. Document or photograph the damage/emergency and send to DPW after (arborist@collegeparkmd.gov).
Those who wish to remove or prune a surviving tree must submit an application for a permit.
According to Maryland Law, in the aftermath of a weather-related event, which results in fallen trees and debris, or similar incidents that may be qualified as an "act of God," the affected property owners are responsible for damage to their property, including debris cleanup and removal or other related expenses. These weather event related expenses may be covered under the homeowner's insurance policy. Property owners are encouraged to contact their homeowners’ insurance company to determine policy coverage.
Report any down wires to Pepco at 877-737-2662.
Report damaged or malfunctioning streetlights directly to Pepco here.