Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (Dec. 14, 2025) — An American Red Cross of Northern Nevada disaster response volunteer deployed today to Washington state, where historic flooding has forced as many as 100,000 residents to evacuate their homes. The volunteer, a specially trained Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) driver, will join hundreds of Red Cross responders from across the country, mobilizing to provide emergency shelter, food and critical aid to those affected by the catastrophic flooding.
“Our Northern Nevada volunteers bring skill, commitment and compassion to every disaster deployment,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “As an ERV driver, he plays a vital role in delivering essential support to families impacted by this devastating flooding, but it’s his compassion and commitment to helping others that truly provides hope in their time of need.”
The Northern Nevada volunteer deploying to Washington is Wally Lamb from Minden, Nev. He has been a Red Cross volunteer for more than 30 years and has deployed over 25 times to disasters nationwide. He joins four Southern Nevada volunteers also deploying to Washington as ERV drivers.
ERVs are a key part of Red Cross disaster relief, delivering hot meals, water and essential supplies directly to communities affected by disasters. These vehicles can reach hard-to-access areas and serve as mobile units for assessing damage and providing support to residents. Trained ERV drivers are essential to disaster relief efforts, helping the Red Cross respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.
Red Cross Responds to Catastrophic Washington Flooding
Days of heavy rain have caused historic flooding across Washington state, forcing tens of thousands of residents to evacuate as rivers overflowed their banks, flooded homes and damaged critical infrastructure including roads and bridges. The flooding led to a statewide emergency declaration, extensive rescue operations and the opening of multiple emergency shelters to support displaced families.
As conditions continue to evolve, the Red Cross is adapting to meet the immediate needs of those affected by the flooding. Red Cross disaster volunteers are coordinating with state and local officials and community partners to deliver aid where it is needed most.
Red Cross volunteers have opened eight emergency shelters in affected counties, providing evacuees with food, a warm, dry place to sleep and emotional support. Additional shelter locations and relief supplies are being evaluated as the response continues to grow.
How to Help
Support people affected by disasters such as floods, storms and countless other crises by making a Red Cross Disaster Relief donation at redcross.org/Help, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting REDCROSS to 90999. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help communities recover from disasters big and small, whenever and wherever they occur across the country.
Emergency Information at Your Fingertips
Stay prepared for any emergency with the free Red Cross apps. The Emergency App delivers real-time weather alerts, shelter locations and expert disaster guidance, while the First Aid App provides step-by-step instructions for injuries, including lifesaving CPR. Download by searching “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 follow us on social media.
