Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 12, 2025) — A disaster relief volunteer from the American Red Cross of Utah has been deployed to Washington state, where historic flooding has forced as many as 100,000 residents to evacuate their homes. The Utah volunteer joins 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.
“Disasters like this remind us of the importance of being ready to respond at a moment’s notice,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Our volunteers are trained and prepared to step in and provide immediate relief, ensuring that families have a safe place to turn in times of crisis.”
Among the volunteers is Jennifer de Tapia, a Red Cross of Utah volunteer from Salt Lake City, who is assisting with sheltering. This is her seventh disaster deployment across the country.
As situation continues 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 Responds to Catastrophic Washington Flooding
An atmospheric river brought days of heavy rain, inundating communities across Washington and pushing rivers to historic levels. The National Weather Service has called the situation “catastrophic and potentially life-threatening,” with road closures, levee breaches and landslides impacting residents across the region.
Red Cross volunteers have opened eight emergency shelters in affected counties, offering evacuees food, a warm, dry place to sleep and emotional support. Additional shelter locations and relief supplies are being assessed as the response expands. With conditions still evolving, the need for volunteers and resources remains critical, and 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.
