Maryland Floods: 200 Rescued, Including 150 Schoolchildren, Amid Severe Weather Crisis

May 14, 2025
Maryland Floods: 200 Rescued, Including 150 Schoolchildren, Amid Severe Weather Crisis
  • On May 13, 2025, severe flooding in Allegany County, Maryland, led to the rescue of approximately 200 individuals, including 150 students and 50 adults, from Westernport Elementary School.

  • Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with parents like Nash panicking as they navigated floodwaters to reach their children, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

  • Rescues were carried out using boats, showcasing the dramatic efforts to save those trapped by the rising waters, with video footage capturing these heroic actions.

  • Georges Creek reached a moderate flood level of 12.12 feet, surpassing the 12-foot mark that indicates major flooding, with the area experiencing some of the worst flooding in 30 years.

  • Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the evacuations, although family reunifications were delayed due to road closures caused by the flooding.

  • The flooding caused extensive damage, affecting approximately 200 homes and businesses, and prompting significant cleanup efforts from community members and emergency crews.

  • Emergency management reported that between 3 and 6 inches of rain fell in the region, causing rapid runoff and significant flooding in low-lying areas.

  • Officials remain vigilant as forecasts predict more rain, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness following this unprecedented flooding event.

  • Allegany County Administrator Jason Bennett noted the rapid rise of floodwaters, stating that the situation escalated quickly, catching many residents off guard.

  • The National Weather Service described the flooding as 'particularly dangerous,' advising residents to seek higher ground and avoid flooded areas.

  • Keyser Police Chief Jared Bruce highlighted the unprecedented height of New Creek due to the heavy rains, which contributed to the flooding crisis.

  • In response to the flooding, community centers were opened as shelters for those displaced, while emergency services assessed the damage and coordinated evacuations.

Summary based on 25 sources


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