River flooding threatens Washington State: Gov. Bob Ferguson warns of lives at stake amid record Skagit River crests.
Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency on December 10, 2025, warning that “lives will be at stake in the coming days” as historic river flooding ravages western Washington. Fueled by a powerful atmospheric river, rivers like the Skagit are forecast to reach record crests, threatening up to 100,000 residents with evacuation orders already in place across multiple counties.
Current Situation and Record Crests
The Skagit River is expected to hit 47 feet in Concrete early Thursday — shattering the 1990 record — and 41 feet in Mount Vernon by Friday morning. Mandatory evacuations are underway in Mount Vernon, Hamilton, Rockport, Marblemount, and Concrete. The Puyallup River triggered Level 3 “Go Now” orders in Orting, while the Snohomish and Chehalis rivers prompted water rescues and mobile home evacuations.
Since Monday, many areas have received 5–10 inches of rain, pushing more than 10 rivers into Flood Phase 4, the highest alert level. Roads are closing, Interstate 5 has seen rescues, and the Sumas Port of Entry is shut due to rising water.
Governor’s Response and National Guard Activation
Ferguson activated 300 National Guard members and elevated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1. He is pushing for an expedited federal disaster declaration and plans to visit the hardest-hit communities. “If you receive an evacuation order, please follow that order. It’s critical to your safety,” the governor stressed on social media.
Another storm is forecast for Sunday, which could prolong high water levels through the holidays.
Red Cross and Community Relief Efforts
The American Red Cross has opened multiple shelters and is bringing in extra teams with blankets, meals, and hygiene kits. Sandbag stations are active in places like Mount Vernon, and local fire departments are conducting door-to-door warnings and rescues.
Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads and “turn around, don’t drown.”
How is your community preparing? Share updates or safety tips in the comments below, and stay tuned to local alerts for the latest developments.