Severe Flooding Hits Washington State: Residents Evacuate

Sat Dec 13 2025 23:30:03 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An atmospheric river brings unprecedented rainfall, forcing thousands to evacuate their homes as emergency services conduct rescues across flooded regions.

In Burlington, Washington, Eddie Wicks and his family faced rapid flooding as an atmospheric river dumped heavy rainfall, prompting urgent evacuation orders. Thousands in the region have been affected, with dramatic rescues underway and emergency declarations in place. Authorities warn of continued high waters and potential mudslides as rains are forecast for the near future.

BURLINGTON, Wash. — Eddie Wicks and his wife, accustomed to flooding after years in Duvall, never expected the rapid rise of water when they went to bed. Their tranquil farm next to the Snoqualmie River quickly turned into a lake as the water surged more than four feet in just hours, dramatically compelling them to seek rescue.

King County deputies came to their aid, transporting the family and their dog across what was once their field, now a vast expanse of water. This is just one story among thousands as a powerful atmospheric river brought an unprecedented foot of rain to parts of Western and Central Washington over several days, escalating fears of flooding.

“It’s happening so fast, we didn’t have time to prepare,” Wicks lamented. Like Wicks, many residents were forced to evacuate as authorities issued orders following rising water levels and the fear of levee failures.

State officials confirmed that tens of thousands had to evacuate, particularly in Burlington, which faced some of the worst impacts as water continued to flood neighborhoods. The situation worsened with more rain forecasted, raising additional concerns for the health and safety of returning residents.

The National Guard has mobilized to assist with evacuation efforts and to deliver critical supplies to those in need. Emergency measures remain in place as water levels are still dangerously high, with reports of rescues from vehicles and rooftops continuing.

Communities across the state are facing significant damage, and while there have been no casualties reported, the widespread effects of the flooding are still being assessed. Roads and bridges have been washed out, and emergency services have been stretched thin among rescue missions.

“Hang in there,” Sumas Mayor Bruce Bosch encouraged residents returning to flooded homes. “We will work to get everyone back as soon as safely possible.”

As the floodwaters begin to recede, residents are reminded to stay vigilant in the face of potential aftereffects like mudslides and continued rainfall that could exacerbate the situation.