Severe Flooding Hits Washington State, Prompting Evacuations and Emergencies

Fri Dec 12 2025 18:39:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Days of torrential rain have led to unprecedented flooding across Washington state, leaving thousands stranded and causing extensive damage. Governor Bob Ferguson has declared a state of emergency as officials brace for more rainfall.

Washington state is facing historic flooding as continuous rainfall overwhelms infrastructure. Approximately 78,000 residents have been evacuated from the Skagit River floodplain, and emergency services have rescued families stranded by rising waters. The state is under a severe weather warning, with additional rainfall expected to exacerbate the situation.

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Washington state is struggling to cope with historic flooding after days of relentless rain, which has resulted in families being stranded on rooftops, bridges being washed out, and at least two homes being dislodged from their foundations. Authorities are warning that more rain is expected, which could worsen an already dire situation.

The Governor of Washington, Bob Ferguson, has declared a state of emergency with evacuation orders issued for tens of thousands of residents living in major agricultural regions near the Skagit River, which is anticipated to crest on Friday.

During a recent address, Ferguson emphasized the severity of the flooding. I understand that many in our state have experienced significant floods in the past; however, we’re looking at a historic situation, he stated on social media.

Approximately 78,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate from the Skagit River floodplain, with local officials faced with catastrophic flooding that is overwhelming roads and submerging bridges. Some areas are so severely affected that there are no alternative routes available, including significant portions of state Route 410.

The significant rainfall led to a landslide blocking part of Interstate 90, with vehicles trapped by fallen trees and mud. Near the U.S.-Canada border, cities including Sumas and Everson have been evacuated, and the border crossing at Sumas has been closed as flooding continues to rise.

According to the National Water Prediction Service, the Snohomish River rose nearly a foot higher than its previous record, while the Skagit River also recorded similarly alarming levels of flooding. Residents in areas like Mount Vernon, which has seen flooding in the past, are facing renewed threats despite existing flood defenses.

Emergency crews across the state have made numerous rescues, with helicopters retrieving families from roofs in Sumas after floodwaters reached levels of 15 feet. Floodwaters have also significantly eroded landscapes, causing some homes to collapse into the Nooksack River.

With another storm system anticipated, which could bring additional rain beginning Sunday, concerns mount over the potential for further flooding. As local mayors and officials work to support affected communities, state and national efforts are being mobilized to mitigate the disaster's scale.