Flooding Triggers Large-Scale Evacuations in Washington

Torrential rainfall has unleashed severe flooding across Washington state, prompting evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents as rivers surged beyond their banks and infrastructure collapsed under extreme conditions.

Governor Bob Ferguson urged residents in threatened areas on Thursday to leave immediately and follow guidance from local authorities. Officials estimate that up to 100,000 people may be affected by mandatory evacuation notices.

In a message posted on X, Ferguson acknowledged that many communities have experienced major flooding in the past but warned that the current situation is unprecedented, with water levels expected to rise more than two feet, about 61 centimeters, above previous record flood stages.

More than 30 major highways were closed as floodwaters inundated roads and surrounding communities. The governor declared a statewide emergency to expedite the deployment of funding, equipment, and personnel.

The National Guard has been mobilized to assist in rescue efforts, using helicopters and boats to evacuate stranded residents from submerged neighborhoods.

Dozens of rivers have overflowed, submerging towns, farmland, and large swaths of rural Washington. Emergency officials say the threat of additional flooding remains high as heavy rains continue across the region.