Severe Flooding Threatens Northwest Washington Residents

Thu Dec 11 2025 20:50:09 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As heavy rainfall looms over western Washington, authorities urge tens of thousands to prepare for possible evacuations due to rising river levels. Emergency services and evacuation orders are already in effect in several areas.

Western Washington faces severe flooding threats as heavy rain continues. Thousands are urged to evacuate, with the state officially declaring an emergency. Rescue efforts have commenced in regions like Skagit County and Pierce County, where historic river elevations could exceed standard safety measures. The community is bracing for potentially catastrophic conditions as heavy downpours are expected to continue.

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Thousands of residents across western Washington are bracing for potential evacuation orders as a new wave of heavy rain threatens to cause catastrophic flooding. Rivers are approaching historic levels, and with another storm forecast to hit Thursday, preparations are underway.

Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency, indicating that “lives will be at stake in the coming days.” In Skagit County, known for its agricultural significance, evacuations have already been ordered for residents near the Skagit River floodplain.

“Catastrophic flooding is likely in many areas,” Ferguson noted on social media as the state began mobilizing water rescue teams and rescue boats.

The Washington National Guard is deploying hundreds of members to assist affected communities. Reports from Pierce County indicate that deputies have conducted numerous rescues, including one notable incident involving a man in a Santa hat, who was helped through waist-deep water.

Heavy rainfall accumulated up to 6 inches in parts of the Cascade Mountains and helped trigger road closures and landslides, including on Interstate 90. Authorities have also closed sections of U.S. Route 2 due to dangerous conditions from fallen trees and mud.

Record Flooding Expected

As the situation intensifies, the Skagit River is predicted to crest near 47 feet, threatening the integrity of local infrastructure. Local officials are taking protective measures, including closing non-essential government services, and residents are adding sandbags and moving valuables to higher ground.

Mount Vernon's previous flood experiences, including significant incidents in 2003, have heightened community concern as flooding levels could surpass existing floodwalls.

A growing number of customers are also facing power outages, with over 17,000 losing electricity as of Wednesday night.

Authorities continue to monitor weather patterns closely as another storm is expected, suggesting a prolonged period of unstable weather conditions leading up to the holidays. Emergency services emphasize the importance of timely evacuations to ensure community safety.