Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

UPDATE: The Searchlight shelter was closed Sunday night after no residents needed the services. Clark County officials will determine if there is a need to reopen the shelter.

LAS VEGAS (Aug. 20, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada opened two shelters today to accommodate individuals displaced by damage and flooding caused by Tropical Storm Hilary. Red Cross staff and volunteers have established shelters in Pahrump and Searchlight, two areas prone to flooding.

In close coordination with local officials, Red Cross disaster workers have developed response plans and received requests to open the shelters. The following Red Cross shelters are currently operational:

• Pahrump, Nye County: Bob Ruud Community Center, located at 150 N. Highway 160
• Searchlight, Clark County: Searchlight Community Center, located at 200 Michael Wendell Way
  

In anticipation of the need for additional shelters, trained Red Cross disaster volunteers have pre-positioned supplies, including cots, blankets, water and snacks, in Moapa and Clark County locations. Local officials are currently assessing whether any other shelters need to be opened.

"Our dedicated staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly to ensure that everyone in need has a safe place to stay," said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter. "We maintain constant communication with emergency managers and other officials to promptly provide shelters when called upon."

Tropical Storm Hilary, which was downgraded from a hurricane, made landfall in California earlier on Sunday and is now moving northeast toward Nevada. The National Weather Service has predicted significant weather risks in Mohave and Nye counties, extending from Sunday to early Monday. Southern Nevada remains under a flood watch until late Monday.

Flanigan emphasized the extreme dangers of flash flooding, stating, "It is crucial for everyone to understand that flash flooding poses a severe threat and even a small amount of water can sweep you off your feet. In fact, just 6 inches of water can cause you to fall. It is essential to never drive through flooded streets, as a mere 12 inches of rushing water can carry away most vehicles."

There is still time to prepare your home and family. Follow these three steps:

1. Create an evacuation plan: Establish a plan for reuniting with your family in case of separation during an emergency and determine the best course of action for evacuating. Remember to include provisions for your pets in your emergency plan.
   
2. Build an emergency kit: Assemble essential items such as a gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, medications, supplies for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important documents, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, area maps, and emergency contact information.
3. Stay informed: Familiarize yourself with how local officials will communicate during a disaster and ensure you have access to important information, including evacuation orders. Stay tuned to local radio stations, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.

Residents are also encouraged to download the free Red Cross Emergency App to stay prepared for unexpected situations. The app provides real-time weather alerts, information on open Red Cross shelters, and expert advice on floods. It is compatible with smartphones, Apple Watch, and Android wearable devices. To download the app, search for "American Red Cross" in your app store or visit redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.