May 14th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

Early afternoon on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, flash flooding occurred throughout Allegany County. Water levels rose very quickly throughout the county. Areas such as Westernport and George’s Creek were impacted more than others, rapidly making Westernport Elementary School, Westmar Middle School and George’s Creek Elementary School inaccessible. Emergency Services of Allegany County deemed transportation of students from schools unsafe and advised all students and staff remain in place. Emergency Services took over operations at all three schools.
Water levels at Westernport Elementary School rose, covering Church Street and flooding the first floor of the three-story building. Students and staff were moved to the second floor where they were able to watch a movie together. Emergency Services collaborated with students and staff to utilize swift water rescue boats to safely transport all students and staff to safe ground. Students and staff were then transported by emergency vehicle to a church building on Fusner Street in Westernport. Once at the church building, the community collaborated to provide the students with food and support. All students were reunified with their parents and guardians at the church building.
Access to George’s Creek Elementary School was restricted, as Maryland Route 36 became impassable due to flooding. Emergency Services held students and staff at the school until buses could safely transport students to Mountain Ridge High School in Frostburg, Maryland. While held at the school, students gathered in the gym and were provided snacks while they watched a movie.
Westmar Middle School became inaccessible, as Maryland Route 36 was flooded, making the road impassable in either direction. Emergency Services directed students and staff to stay in place. School personnel provided students with snacks, a variety of activities in the gym, movies, and dinner. Emergency service crews were able to rescue students and staff from the school. Students were transported to Mountain Ridge High School.
Twelve students of various ages stayed overnight at Mountain Ridge High School. Administrators, teachers, a school nurse, a school security officer, a counselor, food service staff, among others, were on hand to take care of the students. A variety of activities were available for all students throughout the evening. The community provided 152 linen kits, which included, a sleeping mat, blankets, sheets, pillows, towels, and washcloths, toiletries, and food. Staff organized phone calls for students to ensure that they were able speak with their parents and guardians. Regular updates were provided to parents and guardians throughout the day and evening.