In brief
Western Washington is bracing for severe flooding as a series of heavy rainstorms prompt evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents. With rivers nearing record levels, Governor Bob Ferguson has declared a statewide emergency, and the National Guard is being deployed to assist affected communities. Evacuation orders have particularly impacted areas near the Skagit River and other flood-prone regions, where officials warn of catastrophic potential. As officials prepare for the worst, the National Weather Service reports significant rainfall accumulation, with more storms on the horizon.
MOUNT VERNON, Wash. (AP) — Following a week of unyielding rain, residents in western Washington are preparing for evacuation as heavy downpours threaten to lead to unprecedented flooding. The latest forecasts indicate rivers, including the Skagit River, may reach record levels, prompting official warnings about potential catastrophe.
As Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency, he urged residents in vulnerable regions to relocate to higher ground. The emergency response includes deploying the National Guard to assist communities at risk.
In particular, Skagit County has ordered evacuations for areas adjacent to the floodplain. Communities like Orting have already begun rescue operations as floodwaters rise to dangerous levels.
In addition to the flood threats, residents have reported widespread power outages affecting thousands, compounding the challenges faced by emergency officials.
Local meteorologists describe the ongoing weather patterns as the phenomenon of an atmospheric river, a stream of moisture that is significantly elevating precipitation levels across the region. This continues a series of storms, with another expected soon thereafter.
Officials are anticipating further rainfall beginning again Sunday, heightening fears of severe flooding into the holiday season. Dike and levee districts are on high alert, as infrastructure proves critical in safeguarding the population during these tumultuous weather conditions.
