Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Dec. 13, 2025) — A team of four American Red Cross of Southern Nevada disaster response volunteers will deploy tomorrow to Washington state, where historic flooding has forced as many as 100,000 residents to evacuate their homes. These specially trained Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) drivers 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 Southern Nevada volunteers bring skill, commitment and compassion to every disaster deployment,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Their specialized training as ERV drivers ensures they can deliver essential supplies and support directly to impacted communities, but it’s their compassion and commitment to helping others that truly provides hope to families facing this devastating flooding.”
Southern Nevada volunteers deploying to Washington are Rockee Nelson and Sherriel Weithers, both from Henderson, and Patrick Moore and Linda Gong, both from Las Vegas. Each of these volunteers has deployed multiple times to disasters across the country, bringing extensive experience to support relief efforts in Washington.
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. In coordination with community partners, Red Cross disaster volunteers are working closely with state and local officials to ensure relief efforts reach the areas most affected.
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. Residents are urged to follow evacuation orders and seek shelter if needed.
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.
