Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley has issued a state of emergency in the wake of severe flooding from Tropical Storm Debby. This declaration comes after the City Dock experienced floodwaters surging to an alarming 4.4 feet above normal levels, as reported by WMAR2 News, marking this as the eighth most severe flood in the city's recorded history. The statement from the city, released this Wednesday, indicated that this is not the first time Annapolis has had to face such a calamitous event, with a similar state of emergency called earlier in the year due to significant flooding in January.

An initial assessment cited by WBALTV has estimated the damage to 19 local businesses and nonprofits, amounting to a substantial $162,000 in lost revenue and damage to equipment. Mayor Buckley, acknowledging the economic distress, stated, "Now that we have an assessment of the damage, I am declaring a state of emergency, which will allow city staff to move forward quickly with recovery efforts to help our business community and give city leadership more flexibility in making executive and spending decisions."

The city is proactively seeking various avenues for relief funding and resources to assist in the repairs and to implement flood protection measures for the future. Mayor Buckley reassured the business community, "We will keep in close contact with businesses throughout this process to ensure they have the latest information on any assistance as it becomes available," He said, per WMAR2 News, suggesting a commitment to providing ongoing support and clear communication with the local businesses impacted by the storm.