by Spokane, Washington – A relentless atmospheric river pounding the Pacific Northwest has unleashed widespread flooding across Washington state, pushing several rivers to major flood stage and prompting evacuations, water rescues, and the shutdown of major highways.
Days of continuous heavy rain have saturated the region, and the National Weather Service Spokane Office has issued multiple Flood Warnings as water levels climb toward near-record heights. Forecasters warn that additional rainfall could worsen impacts through the end of the week.
Communities Face Rapidly Rising Rivers and Mandatory Evacuations
Skagit County officials urged residents living in the 100-year flood plain to evacuate late Tuesday night as the county reported major flooding. Emergency shelters have been opened to support displaced families as water continues to rise at dangerous speeds.
Statewide, numerous rivers have exceeded or are approaching benchmark levels
Wenatchee River: 15 ft, highest since 2006
Entiat River: nearing 8 ft, highest since the 1970s
Stehekin River: above 26 ft
In some areas, floodwaters have overtaken roads, washed out shoulders, and created hazardous driving conditions. Officials stressed that even shallow moving water can be life-threatening.
Major Highways and Mountain Passes Impacted by Slides and Flooding
Key roadways across Washington have been shut down as flooding and debris slides intensify. A significant debris slide along Interstate 90 near North Bend forced a major closure Wednesday afternoon. Portions of State Route 906 near Snoqualmie Pass are also closed due to water across the roadway.
Stevens Pass remains shut down, complicating travel and freight movement across the Cascade Mountains.
The Washington State Department of Transportation continues to assess conditions as crews work to clear debris and monitor unstable slopes.
Governor Declares Statewide Emergency and Activates National Guard
With river levels rising and widespread impacts reported, Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency to mobilize support. He activated the National Guard to assist local agencies with evacuations, rescue operations, and flood response.
The governor announced that 100 National Guard members were deployed Wednesday evening, with an additional 200 members scheduled to join response efforts Thursday.
Flood Warnings Issued Across Multiple Rivers
The National Weather Service has issued targeted Flood Warnings across the region:
Wenatchee River at Peshastin
Expected to reach major flood stage, with flooding likely between Leavenworth and Wenatchee. The river’s rise beyond 15 ft marks the first major crest in nearly 20 years.
Entiat River near Ardenvoir
Forecast to reach minor flood stage but nearing levels not seen in decades. The Flood Warning remains in effect through Thursday afternoon.
Stehekin River at Stehekin
Currently flowing at 26.4 ft, causing localized flooding on nearby roads. Additional rise remains possible.
Puyallup River at Orting
Entered major flood stage Wednesday with widespread road flooding and evacuation orders issued for surrounding neighborhoods.
Rivers Approaching Urban Areas
Two rivers raising particular concern due to their proximity to more populated areas include:
Cedar River at Renton
Snohomish River at Snohomish
Both are forecast to crest Friday near record heights, with the potential for extensive inundation of homes and roads.
Train Services Disrupted as Flooding Threatens Rail Lines
Amtrak Cascades suspended train service between Seattle and Vancouver, Canada, for December 11 and 12 due to dangerously high levels at the Skagit River. Trains south of Seattle will continue operating.
Rail officials noted that floodwaters can destabilize tracks, wash away ballast, and create unsafe conditions for operators and passengers.
First Responders Conduct Water Rescues Amid Hazardous Conditions
Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue teams responded to several emergency calls Tuesday as cars became stranded in rapidly rising water. Firefighters used inflatable kayaks to rescue passengers trapped by encroaching floodwaters.
Officials warned motorists to avoid flooded roadways entirely.
In the words of the Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue team:
“Do not drive past road closure signs. Turn around if you encounter water over the roadway, and never attempt to drive through water.”
More Rain Ahead as Atmospheric River Continues
Forecasters expect the atmospheric river to remain over the region through the end of the week. With the ground fully saturated and rivers already overflowing, any additional rainfall could intensify flooding and lead to further evacuations.
Residents are urged to stay alert, follow local emergency updates, and avoid travel in flooded areas whenever possible.
Share Your Thoughts
Have you been affected by the flooding or evacuation orders in Washington? Share your experience in the comments below.
