Caring Causes - Red Cross Giving Day

 Long-range forecasts from, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), AccuWeather, The Old Farmer’s Almanac and others, warn that communities across the United States face an elevated risk of above-average temperatures, flooding and wildfires this spring, driven by melting snowpacks, slow-moving storm systems, and persistent drought conditions.

Flooding stands out as a significant threat, particularly across the Midwest, Northeat, and the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys, where snowmelt combined with heavier spring rainfall could overwhelm rivers and low-lying areas. Flood risks also extend into the Pacific Northwest, Northern Plains, Southeast, and Gulf Coast regions.

At the same time, wildfire danger is expected to increase across drought-stricken areas of the Southwest, Southern Plains, Southeast, and mid-Atlantic, where warmer-than-average spring temperatures and dry vegetation may fuel early-season fires.

The warnings follow a winter already marked by widespread and compounding disasters that have created massive needs nationwide. January’s severe winter storms forced thousands of households from Texas to New England to rely on the American Red Cross for emergency aid, including food, shelter, and relief supplies. The scale of response rivaled major disaster years, such as the record Los Angeles wildfires the year before.

In fact, the organization delivered more aid in just the first month of this year’s winter‑storm response than it did during the first month of the Los Angeles wildfire response a year earlier — a surge driven by the sheer scale and severity of the storms. With extreme weather affecting communities across multiple states simultaneously, the Red Cross had to mobilize over 50% more disaster workers this January compared to the same period last year.

Meanwhile, volunteers were stretched even further as home fires continued to upend lives nationwide. In January alone, Red Cross volunteers responded to over 6,610 home fires across the country —where they were able to assist over 25,535 people who needed immediate support.

With the elevated risk of floods, severe storms, and wildfires this spring, families are counting on that support when help can’t wait. Emergency preparedness officials urge individuals and communities to review evacuation plans and ensure emergency kits are ready as the nation heads into what could be another high-impact disaster season.

As part of ongoing relief and preparedness efforts, Americans are encouraged to support Red Cross Giving Day on Wednesday, March 25. In this interview, Edgar Olivio, Regional Executive, American Red Cross, explains how disasters can strike without warning — often turning ordinary moments into emergencies in minutes, and how the organization springs into action.

Contributions to the American Red Cross help provide shelter, food, relief supplies, emotional support, and other critical assistance when it matters most.

Courtesy: Nonprofit American Red Cross