Severe Rainfall Threatens Catastrophic Flooding in Western Washington

Sat Dec 20 2025 13:51:20 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

With heavy rains set to hit western Washington, authorities are on high alert as rivers approach historic flood levels. Evacuations have already been initiated in multiple counties as residents brace for the worst.

Residents in western Washington are bracing for potentially catastrophic flooding due to an incoming atmospheric river bringing heavy rain. Governor Ferguson has declared a statewide emergency amid growing concerns as rivers approach historic levels. Evacuation orders have already been issued, and rescue operations are underway in affected areas. Notable impacts have been reported in Pierce County and around Skagit County, prompting coordinated responses from state officials and the National Guard.

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. (AP) — Tens of thousands of residents in western Washington could face evacuation orders when another round of heavy rain drops on the region Thursday, threatening to bring catastrophic flooding as rivers near historic levels.

Days of seemingly unrelenting heavy rain have already triggered rescues and road closures, leading to a statewide emergency declaration by Governor Bob Ferguson, who warned that “lives will be at stake in the coming days.” Evacuations have started in Skagit County, especially for those in the Skagit River’s floodplain.

“Catastrophic flooding is likely,” Ferguson stated on social media, as requests for water rescue teams and boats were made. Hundreds of members from the National Guard have been deployed to assist communities in need.

In Pierce County, emergency crews rescued individuals from an RV park inundated with water. Residents have also been warned to evacuate parts of Orting due to the Puyallup River’s rising levels.

Interstate 90 and U.S. Route 2 faced closures from landslides, trapping vehicles under debris and standing water. Over 17,000 customers experienced power outages across Washington.

Flood Preparation and Outcomes

The Skagit River is anticipated to crest at approximately 47 feet in certain mountain towns. Authorities are worried that river levels exceeding previous highs could surpass flood walls, raising concerns of failures in older levees.

Efforts to safeguard property are underway, with residents like Jake Lambly preparing their homes against potential flooding.

Looking ahead, another storm system is predicted to bring even more rain, leading meteorologist Harrison Rademacher to say the weather pattern looks unsettling as the holiday season approaches. With climate change linked to increased storm intensity, communities hope to mitigate further risks.