Floods of August and September 1971 in Maryland and Delaware

Intense rainfall, resulting mostly from severe thunderstorms in August and September 1971 caused considerable flooding throughout much of Maryland and Delaware. Precipitation totals of 5.47 inches in 3 hours and 12.6 inches in 12 hours were reported for the most severe storm of the period which occurred on Aug. 1-2, and was centered in southeast Baltimore County, Md.

Total storm damage for the 2 months was estimated to exceed 10 million dollars. Fourteen lives were lost and extensive damage was done to homes, businesses, crops, bridges, culverts, and roadways.

Flood discharge data are presented for 75 gaging stations and for 6 miscellaneous sites. New peaks of record occurred at 32 of the gaging stations. The maximum unit peak discharge rate recorded was 2,400 cubic fee t per second per square mile.