As of Tuesday at 10 a.m. the damage totals show 422 structures damaged with 106 nonresidential. There were 70 of that total which had major damage or a total loss. City officials emphasized this figure is changing as the damage assessment continues.
City Manager Bert Cunningham said all the electric lines were hot in the system except for individuals who may have damage that ripped the line directly out of their building.
“We have hired some electric contractors to go out and assist low-income families who can’t afford to hire an electrician so we can get them back up. Hopefully, we will receive some state funding to pay for that later,” he said.
The City of Bowie declared a disaster declaration Saturday, the first step in accessing any disaster funding.
City officials also ask people to stay away from the southside of town as crews continue to restore power, clear debris and assist with damage. Cunningham said there was so much onlooker traffic during the weekend there were several near accidents and work was hindered in some areas due to onlooker traffic.
Residents also are urged to be cautious of any repair services and not be pressured into signing documents or paying any sort of cash or check pre-payment for work.