November 19,2021 | 10:45 a.m.
As Washington state residents are struggling to recover from dangerous amounts of flooding, Convoy of Hope is responding in the hardest hit areas.
On the weekend of November 13, a storm brought high winds and heavy rain to the northwestern United States. Some areas received a monthβs worth of rain in less than three days. The storm left more than 150,000 homes without power. Cities adjacent to the Sumas River and the Nooksack River received the brunt of the damage as the rivers burst over their banks, swallowing roads and houses alike.
βWe are estimating that more than 75% of the homes have incurred water damage,β City of Sumas officials said as they began to assess the damage. βThere are at least 12 rail cars that have also been derailed. Yesterday and today, first responders and volunteers have helped rescue and evacuate hundreds of people. The damage is devastating to our city. These families and businesses need our prayers and support as we start the process of cleanup and rebuilding over the next few days.β
βThe majority of homes and structures in that town have been damaged or destroyed,β said Stacy Lamb of Convoyβs Disaster Services team. βItβs pretty devastating there.β
With the help of local partners, Convoy of Hope is distributing food, water, baby care kits, and cleanup supplies to those affected by this disaster.
To support Convoy of Hopeβs Disaster Services team as this response continues, click here.