Western Washington is facing severe flooding as an atmospheric river brings heavy rainfall to the region. Authorities have issued evacuation orders affecting approximately 100,000 residents, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding. The National Weather Service warns that rainfall may peak Wednesday night, with certain regions, including parts of Skagit County, not experiencing the worst impacts until later in the week.
Authorities anticipate that this flooding could exceed previous records set in 1990, which resulted in two fatalities, over 2,000 evacuations, and damages exceeding $100 million. In reaction to the situation, Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency on Wednesday, with several counties supporting evacuation orders to ensure the safety of their residents.
One of the hardest-hit areas is River Park Estate, an RV park in Sumner, where manager Rebecca Roe described the emotional toll on those affected. Many residents, including Roe and her husband, assisted with evacuations as floodwaters approached their doorstep. “It’s scary to know that you’re going to lose all your stuff,” Roe lamented, reflecting on the fragility of achieving the “American dream” only to see it at risk in a single day.
As conditions worsened Thursday, residents braced themselves for possible evacuation. Roe explained their plan to escape via canoe with their two dogs if needed, while expressing concern for neighbors struggling to relocate their RVs amidst the flooding.
In southeast King County, flooding from the Cedar River has significantly impacted residents, including Gina Simmonds, who evacuated from her home in Maple Valley. Soon after evacuation, her son-in-law waded through floodwaters to save family photographs stored above the ground. With the water rising unexpectedly high and quickly, Simmonds expressed disbelief, recalling the minor flooding her home experienced twice in the past 20 years. She remains anxious about the wellbeing of her pets left behind.
Across the region, flood warnings are in effect for numerous rivers, including the Snohomish River, which recently peaked lower than anticipated, though officials remain cautious about potential changes. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and report any storm-related issues through local hotlines.
In Skagit County, emergency officials urged residents to evacuate as the Skagit River is expected to crest over 39 feet, nearing record-high levels. Commissioner Lisa Janicki emphasized the importance of personal safety, pleading with residents to heed warnings, as businesses and schools shut down. She noted that while some residents have taken risks by walking near weakened levees, the material failure of these structures could complicate already dire conditions.
At the state level, Governor Ferguson is actively seeking federal assistance. He communicated with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure timely support for recovery efforts in the wake of this natural disaster. Meanwhile, Washington’s Congressional delegation has sent a letter to the president, urging prompt federal action due to the vast number of people affected, particularly in Skagit County.
Local governments are taking measures to mitigate the flooding’s impact. Duvall Mayor Amy Ockerlander declared a state of emergency, enabling quicker access to emergency services and funding. Meanwhile, Washington National Guard members have been deployed to assist in sandbagging and flood management operations.
Emergency shelters have been established for displaced residents, quickly filling up as people seek refuge amidst the escalating crisis. Volunteers from the Red Cross are on the ground to provide support, food, and comfort to those affected.
With rapidly changing conditions and continued rainfall forecasted, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety as floodwaters continue to rise across Western Washington.
