Closed sign on a flooded street in heavy rain. In the forground is a huge floodwater puddle with heavy raindrops

The Howard County Public School System in Maryland is adjusting operations after significant rainfall caused mass destruction in Ellicott City over the last week. WTOP reports that the schools have remained open, but some bus routes were affected by the continued road closures due to the massive flooding.

The school system is assisting students and families who have been displaced as a result of the flooding. The interim superintendent has offered the Howard County executive’s office any assistance and resources that they can provide, according to a school district release.

The schools are familiar with flood cleanup after unprecedented floods challenged facilities staff back in 2016. This time around, the staff was prepared. Student services staff was immediately available to provide support as needed to students and faculty.

More support for dealing with flooding is available through federal government programs. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are working together on a public education effort to help people and businesses prepare for and respond to severe weather. NOAA has a dedicated page designed to help businesses and their workers prepare for floods, and to provide information about hazards that workers may face during and after a flood event.

Workers who have to respond to flooded areas face the greatest risks from floods, but all workers can help protect themselves by preparing evacuation plans and learning about the hazards commonly associated with floods, according to the OSHA website.

OSHA’s Preparedness page provides information on making an evacuation plan, emergency supply kits, and flood watches and warnings. The agency’s Response/Recovery page provides useful details on the hazards to avoid when flooding has occurred