200 Evacuated by Boats from Flooded Western Maryland School

Severe flooding in Allegany County, Maryland, forced the evacuation of approximately 200 students and staff from Westernport Elementary School as floodwaters began to reach the second floor, requiring 15 rescue boat trips to safely transport those inside to a nearby church. The flooding was caused by heavy rains that raised Georges Creek, a tributary of the Potomac River, to near-record levels, prompting flash flood emergencies in Westernport, Barton, and surrounding areas. Emergency responders from multiple neighboring counties, including Garrett, Washington, Preston, Montgomery, and Howard, assisted with rescue efforts and additional evacuations of people trapped in homes and vehicles, with no injuries reported. Other local schools such as Georges Creek Elementary and Westmar Middle are also affected with evacuations or shelter-in-place orders, while emergency shelters have been set up by local fire departments and outreach centers. Roads remain blocked due to high water, complicating efforts for parents trying to reach their children, and authorities continue to monitor the situation as additional rain is expected. The community remains on alert as flooding persists in the region, with officials emphasizing ongoing emergency response and public safety measures.