Major Flooding Threatens Washington State as Heavy Rain Approaches

Thu Dec 11 2025 11:50:22 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As severe weather looms, western Washington braces for catastrophic flooding, leading to evacuation orders and state emergencies. Rescue operations are underway amidst rising river levels.

Western Washington is preparing for significant flooding due to another round of heavy rain, with evacuation orders already implemented in several areas. Emergency teams are mobilizing as Governor Bob Ferguson warns of potential life-threatening conditions. The Skagit and Puyallup Rivers are predicted to crest at historically high levels, raising concerns among residents about the stability of levees. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with thousands already affected by flooding and power outages.

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. (AP) — Western Washington is on high alert as a new wave of heavy rain is set to strike on Thursday, threatening catastrophic flooding as river levels approach historic highs.

Following days of relentless rainfall, Governor Bob Ferguson has declared a statewide emergency, emphasizing that “lives will be at stake in the coming days.” Skagit County has already issued evacuation orders for those residing within the floodplain of the Skagit River.

Ferguson has also requested additional water rescue teams, with hundreds of members of the National Guard being deployed to assist local communities.

In Pierce County, residents of an RV park in Orting were rescued by sheriff’s deputies as waist-deep water threatened their safety. The town is under evacuation orders due to dangerously high levels of the Puyallup River.

As of Wednesday night, over 17,000 residents across Washington faced power outages due to the storm's impact. The National Weather Service reported that the Cascades have recorded between 4 to 6 inches of rainfall within 24 hours.

Impending River Flooding

The Skagit River is expected to crest at approximately 47 feet by early Thursday, with possibilities of breaking the flood walls in place. This situation poses serious risks, especially to Mount Vernon, which has witnessed significant flooding in past years.

Local residents have been proactive, sandbagging homes and moving valuables to higher ground in anticipation of the flooding. As one resident noted, This is my only asset, illustrating the desperation felt among those at risk.

Preparations and Warnings

Meteorologists have described the current atmospheric conditions as an intense jet stream of moisture funneling into Washington, exacerbating the ongoing flood situation. With climate change linked to increased storm intensity, officials warn of further rain forecasted for the upcoming days.

State authorities remain vigilant, bracing for what could be a catastrophic situation as they hope residents heed evacuation warnings to ensure their safety.