The extent of the destruction caused by the rain and winds is severe, an ERD release said. The storms produced wind gusts that were equal to those of a Category 1 hurricane. Receding waters destroyed homes, knocked down trees and washed-out roads in their wake.

The Chehalis/Centralia region of Southwestern Washington suffered the most damage from the storms. The Chehalis River overflowed its banks causing the closure of Interstate 5 between Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon for three days.

ERD is working with the Seattle-based Diocese of Olympia to provide flood disaster relief to individuals there who suffered unfortunate losses from the floods. Many people have lost their homes and personal belongings, as well as domestic and farm animals. St. Timothy's Church is providing emergency assistance outreach to those impacted and in need.

"With the holiday season upon us, there is extra urgency to respond to this emergency quickly," said Rich Ohlsen, ERD's director for Domestic Response and Preparedness. "Working with other faith-based and community-based organizations, we can assist the communities in the rebuilding effort. May we keep the victims in our prayers and help them to enjoy Christmases that are merry and comfortable."

To help people affected by the winter storms in the Pacific Northwest, make a donation to ERD's "Emergency Relief Fund" online at http://www.er-d.org/, or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development "Emergency Relief Fund" P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.