MOUNT VERNON, Wash. (AI News) — Washington state is currently grappling with catastrophic flooding due to relentless rainfall, causing significant damage and displacement across the region. Emergency services are in high demand as entire communities are uprooted and tens of thousands of residents are subject to evacuation orders.
Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency Thursday, urging residents to heed evacuation notices as rivers, including the Skagit and Snohomish, neared historically high levels. Reports indicate that approximately 78,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate flood-prone areas, particularly around the Skagit River, which is anticipated to crest Friday.
We are facing exceptional circumstances that will affect many of our residents, Ferguson stated via the social media platform X. With significant flooding already reported, including families stranded on rooftops and houses swept off foundations, authorities are racing against time to ensure safety and mitigate damage.
Visual assessments from various areas show vehicles trapped under debris caused by landslides and flooding, most notably on critical route I-90 east of Seattle. Additionally, local government responses have included protective measures against further flooding through existing dike systems, which are hoped to withstand the current onslaught.
A particularly troublesome forecast predicts a new storm system poised to hit the region as early as Sunday, potentially exacerbating an already dire situation. Emergency responders remain on high alert, assisting in evacuations and rescuing those trapped by the rising waters. Across impacted areas like Sumas and Everson, rapid evacuation efforts underline the severity of the flooding as regional infrastructure struggles to cope.
The recent flooding is a reminder of the increasing challenges posed by climate change, which experts link to more extreme weather patterns. Local governments urge vigilance and preparation as Washington faces ongoing weather threats.
