The Johnstown Flood occurred when the South Fork Dam, situated about 14 miles upstream from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, collapsed after a period of torrential rain. The dam's failure unleashed a torrent of water that crashed into the unsuspecting town, which lie in the valley below. Over the course of mere minutes, the floodwaters transformed into a massive wave, reaching heights of up to 60 feet and flooding entire neighborhoods. The impact was catastrophic, with the floodwaters sweeping away homes, businesses, and countless lives as it surged through the streets of Johnstown, which had a population of approximately 30,000 at the time.

Rescue efforts faced monumental challenges as the infrastructure collapsed under the force of the flood. Many survivors were left to fend for themselves amidst the debris and devastation. Community and disaster relief organizations were mobilized in the wake of the flood, seeking to aid families affected by the disaster. The local government, along with national entities, organized help, but immediate assistance proved difficult as survivors sorted through the wreckage of their lives. An estimated 2,200 people lost their lives, making it one of the deadliest disasters in American history.

In the aftermath, the disaster prompted national attention and led to significant changes in both disaster response methodologies and the monitoring of dam safety. Investigations uncovered the negligence of the dam's owners, leading to discussions on better regulations for dam construction and maintenance. The tragedy also spurred the formation of relief efforts that would later evolve into more structured disaster response agencies, influencing how communities prepare for and respond to natural calamities going forward.