200 Rescued From Elementary School As Flood Waters Reached The Second Floor

In Allegany County, Maryland, 200 individuals were rescued from Westernport Elementary School on Tuesday (May 13) as floodwaters reached the second floor. The evacuation included 150 students and 50 adults, who were transported to safety using 15 rescue boats, according to Allegany County's emergency services department.

The flooding, caused by heavy rainfall, led to a flash flood emergency in the areas of Westernport and Barton, Maryland, as well as Piedmont, West Virginia. Georges Creek, a nearby waterway, rose over seven feet in just six hours, reaching moderate flood levels.

Parents, like Alley Wade, experienced panic as they rushed to the school to ensure their children's safety. Wade shared with WTVR that she had a panic attack upon learning about the flooding. Her sons, William and Quinton, were among those rescued. William described seeing water close to the ceiling of the first floor as they were evacuated.

Despite the ordeal, all evacuees were safe, with no injuries reported. However, many teachers lost their vehicles to the floodwaters. Videos shared on social media showed vehicles floating in the school's parking lot and streets inundated with water.

Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton expressed her heartbreak over the unexpected flooding, which reminded many of the severe floods the town experienced in 1996. Hamilton is seeking emergency assistance from Maryland Governor Wes Moore to address the ongoing crisis.

As the region braces for more rain, emergency responders continue to monitor the situation, especially in the Georges Creek area, which remains a concern for further flooding.