US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr has declared a public health emergency in Washington state following severe flooding caused by heavy rains. The declaration aims to assist Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and facilitate access to essential health services during the crisis.

## Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington State After Flooding

Kennedy Jr declared a public health emergency on Wednesday due to severe flooding in Washington state caused by heavy rains and overflowing rivers.

This emergency declaration is primarily focused on aiding Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who may be particularly vulnerable during such disasters.

The flooding has led to thousands of evacuations, breached multiple levees, and damaged numerous highways across the region.

Tragically, one fatality has been reported as a result of the flooding.

The declaration from Kennedy follows an emergency declaration issued by President Donald Trump on December 12, which unlocked federal resources to assist in the response efforts.

As part of the emergency response, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is providing access to its emPOWER program, which offers data on Medicare enrollees who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment.

This information is crucial for ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary health care services during and after the flooding.

John Knox, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), stated, "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." He emphasized that the agency is prepared to support local actions to save lives and maintain the delivery of health care services.

In addition to the emergency declaration, HHS has waived penalties for hospitals that may violate federal health privacy rules under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) during this crisis.

This waiver is intended to facilitate the provision of care to those affected by the flooding without the concern of legal repercussions for privacy violations.

The federal Disaster Distress Helpline is also available for crisis counseling, providing support to those impacted by the disaster.

The multilingual hotline is accessible 24 hours a day at 1-800-985-5990.

The emergency declaration is retroactive to December 9, indicating that the situation has been critical for some time.

Furthermore, a windstorm forecasted to hit western Washington could exacerbate existing problems, as saturated soil may lead to fallen trees and power lines.

However, the intensity of the windstorm is now expected to be less severe than initially predicted.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has indicated plans to request a major disaster declaration from President Trump, which could potentially unlock tens of millions of dollars in federal assistance to address the aftermath of the flooding.

This request comes as the state continues to grapple with the extensive damage caused by the recent storms.

In a related political context, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has filed a lawsuit against Kennedy regarding his administration's stance on gender-affirming care providers, calling it "cruel and unnecessary." This lawsuit marks the 49th legal action taken by Washington against the federal government since Trump took office.

As the situation develops, state and federal agencies are working together to ensure that residents affected by the flooding receive the necessary support and resources to navigate this challenging time.

Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington State After Flooding

public-health-emergency-declared-in-washington-state-after-flooding

The 2025 hurricane season exemplifies the impacts of climate change, featuring an average number of storms but an alarming increase in the intensity of hurricanes. With record-breaking ocean temperatures fueling powerful storms, the season highlights the urgent need for climate action.

## Climate Change Reflected in 2025 Hurricane Season

The 2025 hurricane season serves as a stark illustration of climate change's effects, showcasing an unusual pattern of storm activity.

While the total number of tropical storms and hurricanes was about average, the intensity of these storms reached alarming levels, with three Category 5 hurricanes recorded, marking the second-highest number in a single season since 2005.

Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm, exemplifies the destructive potential of these powerful hurricanes.

The storm intensified rapidly over unusually warm ocean waters, which have been significantly heated by climate change.

This year, the Atlantic experienced record-breaking sea surface temperatures, which are known to fuel hurricane intensity.

The 2025 season was characterized by a paradox: while no storms made landfall in the US for the first time since 2015, the storms that did form were among the most powerful ever recorded.

Meteorologists noted that the average number of storms does not tell the full story; the increasing frequency of intense hurricanes is a trend linked to rising global temperatures.

Research indicates that climate change is likely causing a shift in hurricane patterns.

As ocean temperatures rise, the likelihood of storms reaching Category 4 and 5 levels increases.

This is attributed to the warmer waters acting as fuel for hurricanes, which can lead to more rapid intensification.

For instance, Hurricane Melissa's top wind speed was reportedly enhanced by climate change, with elevated ocean temperatures making such conditions 700 times more likely.

The implications of these changes are profound.

While the total number of hurricanes may not significantly increase, the proportion of intense storms is expected to rise.

This means that even if fewer storms form, those that do are likely to be more destructive, leading to greater economic and human costs.

Moreover, the atmospheric conditions that accompany climate change, such as increased moisture content, contribute to heavier rainfall during storms.

This year, forecasts indicated that regions affected by hurricanes could see rainfall increases of 5 to 10 percent due to climate change, exacerbating flooding risks.

The 2025 hurricane season also highlighted the role of wind patterns in storm formation.

Wind shear, which can disrupt storm development, was present this year, contributing to the average number of storms despite the intensity of those that did form.

However, climate models suggest that as the planet continues to warm, wind shear may become less prevalent, potentially leading to more intense storms in the future.

The consequences of these powerful storms are particularly dire for vulnerable populations.

Areas like Jamaica and Haiti, which are already facing socio-economic challenges, are at heightened risk from hurricanes.

The combination of extreme weather events and existing vulnerabilities can lead to catastrophic impacts, including loss of life, displacement, and long-term economic hardship.

In conclusion, the 2025 hurricane season serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need for climate action.

The increasing intensity of hurricanes, driven by climate change, poses significant risks to communities worldwide.

As scientists continue to study these patterns, it is clear that addressing climate change is essential to mitigate the impacts of future hurricane seasons.

Climate Change Reflected in 2025 Hurricane Season

climate-change-reflected-in-2025-hurricane-season

A significant winter storm is expected to impact travel across the US following Christmas, with heavy snowfall and icy conditions forecasted in multiple states. Authorities are urging travelers to prepare for hazardous conditions and consider adjusting their travel plans.

## Winter Storm to Disrupt Post-Christmas Travel Across U.S.

As millions prepare to return home after the Christmas holiday, a significant winter storm is forecasted to disrupt travel across various regions of the United States.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and potential power outages, prompting state officials to declare states of emergency in several areas.

In Maryland, Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency due to the expected winter storm, which is projected to bring significant snowfall from January 5 to January 7.

Some regions may see accumulations of 8 to 12 inches, with hazardous road conditions anticipated throughout the state.

Residents are advised to avoid travel during the storm and to prepare their homes and families for potential power outages and extreme cold.

Similarly, in Virginia, Governor Glenn Youngkin has urged residents to monitor weather forecasts and adjust travel plans accordingly.

The storm is expected to bring snow and freezing rain starting Sunday, with the most significant impacts occurring Sunday afternoon and evening.

The Virginia Department of Transportation is actively pretreating roads and monitoring conditions to ensure public safety.

Louis, a Winter Storm Watch has been issued, with forecasts predicting mixed precipitation, including sleet and snow accumulations of 5 to 10 inches, along with ice.

City officials are advising residents to stay informed and consider their travel plans, especially as temperatures are expected to drop significantly after the storm.

The storm's impact is not limited to the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions.

The NWS has indicated that a second storm system could follow closely behind, bringing additional snow and ice to the East Coast, particularly affecting New England and the northern Mid-Atlantic.

This could lead to further travel disruptions as people return to work and school after the holiday break.

Travelers are encouraged to prepare for hazardous conditions by checking road conditions and weather updates before embarking on their journeys.

The NWS recommends that those traveling should carry a winter storm kit, which includes essentials such as blankets, food, water, and a flashlight.

Additionally, drivers should ensure their vehicles are in good working order and filled with gas to avoid being stranded in adverse conditions.

As the storm approaches, authorities are emphasizing the importance of safety.

In Virginia, state police are adjusting staffing levels to respond to potential traffic incidents, advising residents to postpone travel if possible.

Similarly, in Maryland, law enforcement agencies are increasing their presence on the roads to assist with any emergencies that may arise during the storm.

In summary, the upcoming winter storm poses a significant threat to travel across the United States following Christmas.

With heavy snowfall and icy conditions expected, travelers are urged to stay informed, prepare adequately, and consider delaying their travel plans to ensure their safety.

Winter Storm to Disrupt Post-Christmas Travel Across U.S.

winter-storm-to-disrupt-post-christmas-travel-across-u-s

California has declared a state of emergency due to severe flooding caused by a powerful winter storm. Governor Gavin Newsom's proclamation aims to facilitate rapid response and recovery efforts across multiple counties, including Los Angeles and San Bernardino, as communities face significant infrastructure damage and evacuation orders.

## California Flooding Prompts State of Emergency Declaration

California is grappling with severe flooding as a powerful winter storm sweeps through the state, prompting Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency.

This declaration covers numerous counties, including Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange, where conditions have been described as posing "extreme peril to the safety of persons and property".

The storm, characterized as an "atmospheric river event," has brought heavy rain, snow, and high winds, leading to widespread power outages and evacuation orders.

As of Wednesday night, over 197,000 households were without power, primarily along the coast from Monterey County to Oregon.

The storm's impact has been particularly severe in Northern California, where mandatory evacuation orders were issued for cities such as Richmond and Watsonville due to the risk of flooding and debris flows, especially in areas previously affected by wildfires.

In response to the emergency, state agencies are mobilizing resources to assist local jurisdictions.

The proclamation allows for the activation of the National Guard and directs Caltrans to seek federal aid for highway repairs and reconstruction efforts.

This is crucial as the storm has already caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads and highways, which are vital for emergency response and recovery operations.

The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and warnings across various regions, with the heaviest rainfall expected to continue into Thursday.

Urban areas could see between 2 to 4 inches of rain, while mountainous regions may receive up to 8 inches, exacerbating the risk of flooding in already vulnerable areas.

Governor Newsom emphasized the state's proactive measures, stating, "California is acting early and decisively to do all we can to get ahead of dangerous winter storms".

Emergency responders have been pre-deployed to high-risk areas, equipped with fire engines, swift-water rescue teams, and other essential resources to ensure public safety during this crisis.

The storm's effects have been felt across the state, with reports of downed trees and power lines, particularly in urban centers like San Francisco, where gusts reached up to 85 mph.

The San Francisco Fire Department has responded to numerous incidents related to flooding and fallen trees, including rescues of individuals trapped in vehicles by debris.

As the storm continues, officials are urging residents to stay informed and heed evacuation orders.

In areas like Wrightwood, where mud and debris flows pose significant risks, authorities have advised residents to shelter in place and avoid unnecessary travel.

Evacuation centers have been established to assist those displaced by the flooding, providing essential services and support to affected communities.

While the current storm brings immediate challenges, it also highlights the ongoing issues related to California's water management and infrastructure resilience.

Experts note that the state has been experiencing a pattern of extreme weather, with significant swings between drought and heavy precipitation, which can strain existing flood management systems.

The recent storms have tested infrastructure that has not faced heavy flows in years, raising concerns about the effectiveness of flood control measures in place.

As California navigates this crisis, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and facilitating recovery efforts.

The state is committed to addressing the immediate impacts of the storm while also considering long-term strategies to enhance resilience against future extreme weather events, which are expected to become more frequent due to climate change.

In summary, California's declaration of a state of emergency in response to severe flooding underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect communities and restore essential services.

As the storm continues to unfold, the state's response will be critical in mitigating the impacts of this natural disaster and supporting recovery in the days ahead.

California Flooding Prompts State of Emergency Declaration

california-flooding-prompts-state-of-emergency-declaration

Recent winter storms have led to chain controls and multiple spinouts on I-80 and other Sierra passes, significantly slowing travel. Heavy snowfall is expected to continue, prompting advisories for drivers to exercise caution and consider alternate routes.

## Chain Controls and Spinouts Disrupt Travel on I-80 and Sierra Passes

Travel through the Sierra Nevada, particularly on Interstate 80 (I-80), has been severely impacted by a series of winter storms.

Chain controls are currently in effect, and multiple spinouts have caused significant delays for travelers in the region.

As of Wednesday afternoon, chain controls were mandated on I-80 from Nyack in Placer County to the Nevada state line.

All vehicles, except for four-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with snow tires on all four wheels, are required to use chains.

Commercial vehicles, specifically tractor-trailer combinations, are prohibited from traveling on I-80 between Applegate and the Nevada state line due to hazardous conditions caused by spinouts.

The National Weather Service has warned that heavy snowfall is expected to continue, with snow levels dropping to around 5,000 to 6,000 feet.

This means that even lower elevations, including the Tahoe Basin, could experience significant snowfall.

Forecasters predict that snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour during peak periods, leading to further travel complications.

Travelers have reported that conditions on I-80 have been treacherous, with some experiencing delays of up to two hours for just a few miles of travel.

The speed limit has been reduced to 30 mph in chain control areas, which has contributed to the slow movement of traffic.

In addition to I-80, other routes in the Sierra are also under chain control.

For instance, chains are required on State Route 431 (Mt.

Rose Highway) and US-50, with similar restrictions in place for several other highways in the area.

Caltrans has advised drivers to check for real-time updates on chain control locations and road conditions, as they are working to improve the consistency of information provided through mapping services.

The situation is expected to improve over the weekend as drier, colder weather is forecasted to move into the region.

However, until then, travelers are urged to exercise caution and consider alternate routes if possible.

In summary, the combination of chain controls and spinouts has created challenging travel conditions on I-80 and other Sierra passes.

With heavy snowfall continuing, drivers should remain vigilant and prepared for delays as they navigate these winter weather challenges.

Chain Controls and Spinouts Disrupt Travel on I-80 and Sierra Passes

chain-controls-and-spinouts-disrupt-travel-on-i-80-and-sierra-passes

The US Department of Health and Human Services has declared a public health emergency in Washington state due to severe storms, flooding, and landslides. This declaration aims to facilitate healthcare access and support recovery efforts in the affected regions.

## Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington After Severe Storms

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy Jr has declared a public health emergency for Washington state following a series of devastating storms that have caused significant flooding, landslides, and mudslides across the region.

This emergency declaration aims to enhance healthcare access and support recovery efforts in the wake of the natural disasters that began impacting the area on December 9, 2025.

This declaration comes on the heels of an emergency declaration by President Donald Trump, which was issued on December 12, 2025.

Trump's declaration unlocked federal assistance for various counties affected by the storms, including Benton, Chelan, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, King, Kittitas, Lewis, Mason, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, Wahkiakum, Whatcom, and Yakima.

The assistance is also extended to the Samish Indian Nation and other Tribal Nations within the specified jurisdictions.

John Knox, HHS' Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), emphasized the department's readiness to assist state and local response efforts.

He noted the potential healthcare impacts stemming from the severe storms and highlighted the importance of ensuring that residents have continuous access to necessary care during and after the crisis.

To facilitate this, HHS has activated its emPOWER program, which provides critical data on Medicare beneficiaries who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment, such as dialysis machines and oxygen tanks.

This information is vital for prioritizing at-risk individuals during power outages and other disruptions caused by the storms.

In addition to healthcare access, the HHS declaration allows for greater flexibility in Medicare and Medicaid services to address urgent needs arising from the emergency.

This flexibility is crucial as communities work to recover from the extensive damage caused by back-to-back atmospheric rivers that have led to historic flooding and infrastructure disruptions.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson had previously declared a statewide emergency on December 10, 2025, in response to the severe weather conditions.

He subsequently directed $3.5 million in state aid to support residents affected by the flooding and activated assistance programs for quicker emergency relief.

As recovery efforts ramp up, HHS is also providing emotional support through the Disaster Distress Helpline, which offers 24/7 crisis counseling in multiple languages.

Residents can reach out for assistance by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990, ensuring that mental health resources are available alongside physical health support during this challenging time.

The HHS declaration and the accompanying federal assistance are critical steps in addressing the immediate healthcare needs of those impacted by the storms.

As the situation evolves, state and federal agencies are working collaboratively to ensure that residents receive the necessary support to recover and rebuild.

In summary, the public health emergency declared by HHS underscores the severity of the situation in Washington state and the commitment of federal and state agencies to provide essential healthcare services and support to affected communities.

Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington After Severe Storms

public-health-emergency-declared-in-washington-after-severe-storms

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr has declared a public health emergency in Washington state due to severe flooding and storms. This declaration aims to assist vulnerable populations, particularly Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and follows an emergency declaration from President Trump.

## RFK Jr. Declares Public Health Emergency for Washington Flooding

Kennedy Jr declared a public health emergency on Wednesday in response to severe flooding in Washington state caused by heavy rains and overflowing rivers.

This declaration is particularly focused on assisting Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who may be vulnerable during such disasters.

The flooding has led to thousands of evacuations, breached multiple levees, and caused significant damage to highways across the region.

Although the flooding did not reach the levels initially forecasted, it has resulted in at least one reported death.

Kennedy's declaration is retroactive to December 9, when the severe weather began impacting the area.

In conjunction with this emergency declaration, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is providing access to HHS emPOWER, a program that offers data on Medicare enrollees who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment.

This information is crucial for ensuring that those who depend on such equipment have continuous access to necessary healthcare services during and after the storm.

John Knox, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), emphasized that HHS is prepared to assist state and local response efforts due to the potential health care impacts from the severe storms.

The agency has also waived certain penalties under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to facilitate the sharing of health information necessary for disaster response.

The declaration could enhance Washington state's chances of receiving a major disaster declaration from President Trump, which would unlock federal resources to aid in recovery efforts.

Governor Bob Ferguson is expected to request such a declaration in the coming weeks.

As the state grapples with the aftermath of the flooding, a windstorm is forecasted to hit western Washington, potentially exacerbating existing issues by making trees and power lines more susceptible to falling due to saturated soil.

In addition to the emergency measures, the federal Disaster Distress Helpline is available for those in need of crisis counseling.

This multilingual hotline operates 24 hours a day and can be reached via call or text at 1-800-985-5990.

The public health emergency declaration highlights the ongoing challenges that severe weather events pose to health care providers and the importance of coordinated response efforts to protect vulnerable populations.

As the situation develops, state and federal agencies are working together to ensure that residents affected by the flooding receive the care and support they need.

In a related political context, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has filed a lawsuit against Kennedy regarding his administration's stance on gender-affirming care, calling it "cruel and unnecessary." This lawsuit marks the 49th legal action taken by Washington against the federal government since Trump took office.

The declaration by Kennedy and the ongoing response efforts underscore the critical intersection of health care and emergency management in the face of natural disasters.

RFK Jr. Declares Public Health Emergency for Washington Flooding

rfk-jr-declares-public-health-emergency-for-washington-flooding

The 2025 hurricane season exemplifies the impacts of climate change, featuring an average number of storms but an alarming increase in the intensity of hurricanes. Notably, Hurricane Melissa reached Category 5 status, highlighting the connection between rising ocean temperatures and storm severity.

## Hurricane Season 2025: A Reflection of Climate Change

The 2025 hurricane season has been marked by unusual patterns that illustrate the effects of climate change on storm activity.

While the total number of tropical storms and hurricanes was about average, the intensity of these storms was alarming, with three Category 5 hurricanes recorded, the second highest in a single season since 2005.

This year's hurricane season was characterized by a notable absence of storms making landfall in the United States, a phenomenon not seen since 2015.

However, the storms that did form were among the most powerful ever recorded, raising concerns among meteorologists and climate scientists alike.

Brian McNoldy, a hurricane researcher at the University of Miami, described the season as "unusual," emphasizing the growing likelihood of such patterns due to climate change.

The connection between climate change and hurricane intensity is primarily linked to rising ocean temperatures.

As global warming continues, the oceans absorb significant amounts of heat, which serves as fuel for hurricanes.

Lindsey Long, a meteorologist with the Climate Prediction Center, noted that the Atlantic Ocean has experienced record-breaking heat in recent years, contributing to the formation of powerful storms.

For instance, Hurricane Melissa intensified rapidly over unusually warm waters, ultimately making landfall in Jamaica as a devastating Category 5 hurricane.

Despite the average number of storms this season, the intensity of hurricanes has increased.

Climate models suggest that while the total number of hurricanes may decrease, the proportion of powerful storms is likely to rise as the planet warms.

This trend is concerning, as it indicates that even if fewer storms form, those that do are more likely to be catastrophic.

Wind patterns also play a crucial role in hurricane formation and intensity.

Wind shear, which refers to the difference in wind speed at different altitudes, can disrupt storm development.

This year, significant wind shear contributed to the average number of storms, despite the presence of powerful hurricanes.

However, climate models predict that as the Earth continues to warm, wind shear may increase in the regions where hurricanes form, potentially leading to fewer storms overall but with greater intensity.

Hurricane Melissa serves as a stark reminder of the human impact on climate change.

The storm's rapid intensification was exacerbated by elevated ocean temperatures, which were made significantly more likely due to human-caused climate change.

The implications of such storms are dire, particularly for vulnerable regions like the Caribbean, where communities face heightened risks from extreme weather events.

The economic and human toll of hurricanes like Melissa is substantial.

The storm's slow movement across the Caribbean, another potential consequence of climate change, has raised concerns about prolonged heavy rainfall and flooding in already vulnerable areas.

The National Hurricane Center has issued urgent advisories, emphasizing the extreme dangers posed by the storm and the need for immediate action from local authorities.

In conclusion, the 2025 hurricane season exemplifies the complex relationship between climate change and hurricane activity.

While the total number of storms may remain average, the increasing intensity of hurricanes poses significant risks to communities, particularly in vulnerable regions.

As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the need for effective climate action and disaster preparedness becomes ever more critical.

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