Catastrophic Flooding Hits Pacific Northwest: Evacuations Ordered as Rivers Swell

A dire flooding emergency is unfolding across Washington state. The National Water Center warns of catastrophic river flooding through Friday. The focus is on western Washington and the Cascade Foothills.

A powerful atmospheric river is drenching the region with relentless rain. Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency on Wednesday. Officials are calling the predicted flood levels “historic.”

Atmospheric River Pushes Rivers to Record Levels

The National Water Center warns of a significant risk to life and property. The Skagit and Snohomish Rivers are of highest concern. There is a high risk of levees being topped.

Another 4 to 8 inches of rain is expected through Thursday. This will fall on already saturated ground. According to ABC News, this could force 75,000 people to evacuate.

Swiftwater rescues have already begun. Eastside Fire and Rescue saved several adults and a child on Wednesday. Their homes were inundated by rapidly rising water.

Historic Crests and Widespread Impacts Forecast

The Skagit River is predicted to shatter records. It may peak 4 to 5 feet above its previous historic crest. Senator Maria Cantwell urged residents to take this unprecedented threat seriously.

Record flooding is also forecast for the Snoqualmie River. Amtrak suspended service between Seattle and Vancouver. The town of Randle is currently cut off from outside access.

Heavy rain will taper off by Thursday afternoon. However, major rivers will take days to recede. The threat of landslides remains high in areas of steep terrain.

This is a developing and extremely dangerous situation. All residents in affected areas must heed official evacuation orders immediately. The catastrophic flooding in the Pacific Northwest presents a clear and present danger to communities.

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Which areas in Washington are under evacuation orders?

Officials strongly recommend evacuation for upriver Skagit County communities. This includes Rockport, Hamilton, Marblemount, and Concrete. Floodwaters are expected to isolate these areas.

How long will the flooding last?

The heaviest rain ends Thursday afternoon. Major river flooding will persist through Friday. Some waterways may take several days to return to normal levels.

What travel impacts are expected?

Several roads, including parts of US-12, are already underwater. Amtrak canceled Seattle-Vancouver service for Thursday and Friday. More road closures are anticipated as rivers rise.

Is there a risk beyond Washington state?

Yes. Northern Idaho and Montana also face heavy rain. The forecast calls for localized flash flooding in those regions over the next day.

Why is this flood event so severe?

The region has endured days of relentless rain from an atmospheric river. The ground is utterly saturated, so new rain has nowhere to go. This leads directly to rapid river rises and flooding.