Heavy rains have caused significant flooding across the Pacific Northwest, affecting areas from Oregon to Washington state and extending into British Columbia. The downpour began earlier in the week, spurred by a storm system known as an atmospheric river, which delivers dense moisture from the Pacific Ocean.
Washington state’s western region has experienced the most severe impacts, prompting the U.S. National Weather Service to issue flood watch warnings extending from the Cascade Mountains to Puget Sound and across northern Oregon. The storm has produced rainfall totals ranging from 5 to 10 inches (12.7 to 25.4 cm), with some areas accumulating more than a foot of rain in a 72-hour period, particularly along the western slopes of the Cascades.
The flooding has been especially severe along the Snohomish and Skagit rivers, where authorities reported numerous road closures due to overnight flooding in Snohomish County. Emergency personnel have been involved in several swiftwater rescues as conditions continued to deteriorate. In Skagit County, residents in low-lying areas were urged to evacuate to higher ground due to significant flooding risks.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson indicated that up to 100,000 residents might be affected by evacuation orders, as river levels are predicted to reach historic highs. In response to the unfolding crisis, Ferguson issued a statewide emergency declaration on Wednesday to expedite federal disaster assistance, with forecasters warning of potential catastrophic flooding.
In British Columbia, major highways leading to Vancouver, the country’s largest port, have been closed due to flooding, falling rocks, and avalanche risks, according to local authorities. The transport ministry characterized the situation as “evolving and very dynamic,” highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the region.
As the Pacific Northwest grapples with these severe weather conditions, communities are banding together to support one another in these trying times, demonstrating resilience and solidarity in the face of nature’s fury.
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