Severe weather conditions have pushed Western Washington into a state of emergency as an atmospheric river wreaks havoc in the region. The Skagit Valley, located just north of Seattle, is particularly hard-hit, with 100,000 residents under evacuation orders.
Historic Skagit Valley Flooding Prompts Evacuations
The National Weather Service predicts that rainfall will peak on Wednesday night, with flooding exceeding the record levels set in 1990. This previous crisis led to two fatalities, over 2,000 evacuations, and damage exceeding $100 million.
Evacuation Orders Issued
- More than 75,000 people in Skagit County are affected.
- Mandatory evacuations are in place for areas like Mount Vernon and Sedro-Woolley.
- Local officials emphasize the urgency of moving to higher ground for safety.
Skagit County Commissioner Lisa Janicki has urged residents to prioritize their safety. “Please be preemptive, please get out if you are in that defined flood zone,” she stated. Businesses and schools in Burlington and Mount Vernon have closed as a precaution.
Emergency Response and Preparations
Emergency responders are currently working to mitigate the risks associated with potential flooding. Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency and stressed the need for federal assistance during discussions with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
| Key Events | Date |
|---|---|
| Evacuation orders issued | Wednesday |
| Expected peak flooding | Friday at 10 a.m. |
| Historical flooding record surpassed | Forecasted for Thursday |
Julie de Losada, head of emergency management for Skagit County, highlighted the concerns over the integrity of the flood control systems. After previous flooding events, repairs by the Army Corps of Engineers were put in place, but the upcoming crest will serve as a critical test.
Mount Vernon residents are on edge as the Skagit River’s water levels continue to rise, posing a potential threat to their flood wall. Business owners in the downtown area have taken precautionary measures by sandbagging and boarding windows in anticipation of rising waters.
Community Action and Support
Emergency shelters have been set up in Mount Vernon, quickly filling to capacity. Volunteers have mobilized to provide support, serving food and ensuring that displaced residents feel safe and cared for.
The National Guard has also been deployed for sandbagging missions and monitoring flood damage. Meanwhile, local officials and state representatives are advocating for immediate federal assistance to address the escalating crisis.
With forecasts indicating further severe weather, Western Washington is bracing for what is anticipated to be historic flooding in the Skagit Valley. Residents are encouraged to heed evacuation warnings and prioritize their safety as conditions continue to evolve.
