Historic Washington Floods Trigger Mass Evacuations as Rivers Shatter Records

Severe flooding is forcing thousands from their homes in western Washington. Entire cities are under mandatory evacuation orders. The crisis follows days of intense rainfall from an atmospheric river.

Rivers have swollen to historic levels, overwhelming communities. According to the Associated Press, National Guard troops conducted door-to-door evacuations in Burlington. Governor Bob Ferguson warned up to 100,000 people statewide may need to leave.

Immediate Crisis and Widespread Evacuations

The city of Burlington, with nearly 10,000 residents, was told to evacuate immediately. Officials issued a “go now” order for the Skagit River flood plain. Muddy water rushed into homes, reaching depths of two to three feet.

The Skagit River crested over 37 feet in Mount Vernon. This broke the previous record by several inches. Further north, the cities of Sumas, Nooksack, and Everson were also inundated.

Helicopters rescued two families from rooftops in Sumas. Floodwaters there reached about 15 feet high. In Welcome, at least two houses collapsed into the raging Nooksack River.

Broader Impact and Lingering Threats

The flooding’s impact is severe and widespread. Debris, mudslides, and standing water have closed numerous roads and highways. The U.S.-Canada border crossing at Sumas was also shut down.

While the heaviest rain has ended, rivers will be slow to recede. The National Weather Service warns another storm system is approaching this weekend. This could prolong or renew flooding in vulnerable areas.

Scientists note climate change is linked to more intense rainfall and extreme weather. This event underscores growing vulnerabilities in the region. Communities face a long recovery ahead.

The historic Washington floods represent a severe test for the region’s infrastructure and disaster response. Recovery will take considerable time and resources as the community confronts the aftermath of this record-breaking event.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Which Washington cities were evacuated?

The cities of Burlington, Sumas, Nooksack, and Everson were under mandatory evacuation orders. Officials urged tens of thousands in the Skagit River flood plain to leave immediately.

What caused the severe flooding?

An atmospheric river brought days of torrential rain to the region. This caused multiple rivers, including the Skagit and Snohomish, to rise to record or near-record heights.

Is the flooding over now?

No. While the heaviest rain has stopped, rivers are slow to recede and some have yet to crest. Another storm system is forecast to bring more rain starting Sunday, which could worsen conditions.

How does this flood compare to past events?

The Skagit River crested higher than the previous record set in 2021. The Snohomish River also surged nearly a foot higher than its historic record, making this an exceptional event.

Was anyone injured or rescued?

Helicopters performed dramatic rescues, saving families from rooftops. Authorities have conducted numerous rescues from cars and homes, but no fatalities have been widely reported in initial accounts.

Is climate change a factor in this flooding?

Scientists say climate change is responsible for more frequent and intense extreme weather events, including storms and floods. While a single event cannot be directly linked, it fits the observed pattern of worsening extremes.