The American Red Cross opened a shelter in Wood River this afternoon in response to the flooding in the area.The shelter is at the Wood River Rural High School and it will remain open until further notice.
This is the second shelter the Red Cross opened since about 9 inches of rain fell in the area earlier this week.They are operating a shelter at the Lexington High School and about sixteen people stayed at that facility Tuesday night.
Joshua Murray with the Red Cross tells NewRadio 1110 KFAB, "There are a couple of independent shelters.There is one at the University of Nebraska Kearney they are operating.We are supporting them but they are actually supporting and operating that.They are doing a great job.They had a large number of folks stay with them last night and again tonight again.Our two shelters are in Lexington and in Wood River."
Murray says in the span of two or three months, this is the second time they have opened a shelter in Wood River.They had one in operation last spring when they experienced flooding.He says volunteers have stepped up again and are ready to help in these communities.
Individuals and families displaced from their home are urged to come to a shelter. Red Cross volunteers are on hand to provide a safe place to stay, a place to sleep, a hot meal and referrals to community services.
Anyone evacuating to a shelter should bring essential items for each member of the family, including:
•Prescriptions and emergency medications
•Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
•Identification to show residence is in affected area and important personal documents
•Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
•Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
•Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
The Red Cross is working closely with local emergency management officials to coordinate relief services. The role of the Red Cross is to focus on addressing the immediate needs of those affected.
Download the Red Cross Emergency App for shelter information and to get instant access to information and resources on what to do during a flood. The app is free and can be downloaded in app stores by searching for “American Red Cross” or going to redcross.org/apps.