Maryland Floods: 200 Rescued, Including 150 Schoolchildren, Amid Severe Weather Crisis
May 14, 2025
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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Sources

The Washington Post • May 13, 2025
Floods force evacuation of elementary schools in northwestern Maryland
The Washington Post • May 14, 2025
Flash flooding forces evacuation of elementary school in western Maryland
CNN • May 14, 2025
See video of boats rescuing people from flooded school in Maryland | CNN