Washington ‘catastrophic’ flooding prompts evacuation, road closures and state of emergency: See pics

Communities in Western Washington are contending with increasing river levels, sudden flooding, and road closures as Snoqualmie River continues to swell.

Published on: Dec 11, 2025 6:40 PM IST

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A severe atmospheric river event impacting the Pacific Northwest has redirected its attention to western Washington, resulting in "historic" and possibly record-setting flooding that may necessitate the evacuation of as many as 75,000 individuals. (REUTERS)

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Officials have mandated evacuations for the complete 100-year floodplain of the Skagit River valley. Approximately 100,000 residents of Washington may receive evacuation orders as floodwaters persist in rising, according to a statement from Gov. Bob Ferguson’s office on Wednesday afternoon. (REUTERS)

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A drone view shows a vehicle stranded in an area flooded by the Wallace River, as an atmospheric river brings rain and flooding to the Pacific Northwest, in Gold Bar, Washington, U.S., December 10, 2025. REUTERS/David Ryder (REUTERS)

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Brandon Phasith carries belongings while evacuating amidst rising floodwater, as an atmospheric river brings rain and flooding to the Pacific Northwest, in Sultan, Washington, U.S., December 10, 2025. REUTERS/David Ryder (REUTERS)

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Drew Glastetter walks through floodwaters in an area flooded by the Snoqualmie River, as an atmospheric river brings rain and flooding to the Pacific Northwest, in Fall City, Washington, U.S., December 9, 2025. REUTERS/David Ryder (REUTERS)

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Meteorologists have issued a warning that the Skagit River may rise between 3 to 5 feet above its previous record levels, creating a significant risk for towns such as Mount Vernon, where residents have queued for sandbags at distribution centers.  (REUTERS)

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Deputy Sheriff Kalani Apilado helps Brandon Phasith carry belongings while evacuating amidst rising floodwater, as an atmospheric river brings rain and flooding to the Pacific Northwest, in Sultan, Washington, U.S., December 10, 2025. REUTERS/David Ryder (REUTERS)

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Mount Vernon Mayor Peter Donovan stated that the community is getting ready for a "worst-case scenario" as the river is anticipated to reach a height of 41 feet, while upstream in Concrete, the level could peak at 47 feet, both of which are considerably higher than past records.  (REUTERS)

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A drone view shows a vehicle stranded in an area flooded by the Wallace River, as an atmospheric river brings rain and flooding to the Pacific Northwest, in Gold Bar, Washington, U.S., December 10, 2025. REUTERS/David Ryder (REUTERS)

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Cities such as Snohomish, Auburn, and Chehalis have proclaimed local emergencies, set up temporary flood barriers, and conducted rescues, which included a family of six who were trapped in four feet of water.  (REUTERS)

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Several members of the Washington National Guard are being dispatched to support communities preparing for further river surges. (REUTERS)