Answer
Yes—Ocean City can be affected by Atlantic tropical systems during the June–November hurricane season, even when a storm’s center stays offshore and the main impacts are swell, wind, rip currents, and coastal flooding.
Most visitor weeks pass without a direct hit, but you should still monitor National Weather Service products and Town of Ocean City emergency guidance when a system is in the western Atlantic. Flexible lodging cancellation rules and an inland backup plan matter more in late summer and early fall than in May.
Know the difference between a watch and a warning, refresh today’s weather and radar on Ocean City radar, and read longer climate context on climate & storms. Never use a sunny Boardwalk webcam alone when tropical watches are up.
Sources: NWS Wakefield / NOAA · Town of Ocean City · Maryland EMA / emergency preparedness
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
