Western Washington Faces Catastrophic Flooding and Evacuations Amid Heavy Rain

Thu Dec 11 2025 10:20:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As western Washington braces for another wave of heavy rain, authorities issue evacuation warnings while historic river levels raise safety concerns.

Western Washington is in a state of emergency as heavy rain threatens catastrophic flooding. With rivers approaching historic highs, evacuation orders have been issued, particularly for residents near the Skagit River floodplain. The state has called for rescue teams and additional resources as communities prepare for potential disasters. Governor Bob Ferguson alerts the public that lives are at risk, with many residents already evacuated. Further rain is projected, complicating the ongoing crisis.

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. (AP) — Western Washington is on high alert as tens of thousands face potential evacuation orders due to an impending storm bringing more heavy rain, heightening fears of catastrophic flooding. The region has already experienced days of relentless rainfall which has led to rescues and major road closures.

Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation: Lives will be at stake in the coming days. Residents in Skagit County, including those in low-lying areas along the Skagit River, have been advised to seek higher ground.

Catastrophic flooding is likely, Ferguson proclaimed via social media as the state requests additional water rescue teams to assist impacted communities.

The Washington National Guard is mobilizing hundreds of personnel to aid in rescue and relief efforts. Local authorities are taking action as the Puyallup River threatens to breach its banks, prompting evacuation orders in Orting.

In addition to evacuations, Interstate 90 has been blocked by a landslide, trapping vehicles in mud and debris. Road closures have also been implemented on U.S. 2 due to similar conditions, illustrating the widespread impact of the storm.

Currently, over 17,000 customers are without power as heavy rainfall continues to batter the region, with 4 to 6 inches recorded in the Cascade Mountains in just 24 hours.

Flooding Rivers and Government Responses

The Skagit River is projected to crest dangerously close to record levels, which local officials fear could overtop flood defenses implemented in previous years. Darrin Morrison, a commissioner for the Dike District 3 in Skagit County, stated, We feel very confident that we can handle a ‘normal flood,’ but no one really knows what a 41, 42 foot river looks like south of Mount Vernon.

As preparations continue, residents like Jake Lambly are carrying out necessary tasks to protect their homes, including adding sandbags and moving valuables to safety. This is my only asset, he remarked, highlighting the personal stakes involved in this natural disaster.

Meteorologists characterize the ongoing storms as the result of an atmospheric river phenomenon that delivers substantial moisture across the Pacific to the region, leading to these extraordinary rainfall events, with public safety officials warning of continued risks as storm systems are expected to persist into the upcoming weeks.

Looking Forward

As Washington prepares for the worst, officials are focused on protecting lives and infrastructure. Plans for future storms are already being assessed as the region braces for ongoing unsettled weather heading into the holiday season.