The First Experience:

The Ocean City Emergency Operations Plan received it’s first trial in September of 1985 when Ocean City was skirted by Hurricane Gloria. This strong Atlantic Hurricane caused Ocean City to activate the Emergency Operations Center in the Fire Company Headquarters on 15^th Street. Under the leadership of then Mayor Roland Powell Ocean City evacuated an estimated 50,000 residents and visitors. The storm caused significant flooding and damage to the boardwalk area in South Ocean City. It was clear the framework the emergency management organization offered allowed for a smooth operation prior to and after the storm effected Ocean City.