Governor Bob Ferguson has issued a stark warning that the extent of the damage across Washington state remains unclear but is "profound" following more than a week of catastrophic rainfall and record-breaking floods.
Record Deluge Triggers Hundreds of Rescues
A relentless barrage of storms, fuelled by weather systems stretching across the Pacific Ocean, has dumped close to 2ft (0.6 metres) of rain in parts of the state. This unprecedented deluge has caused rivers to swell far beyond their banks, prompting emergency services to conduct at least 629 rescues and 572 assisted evacuations across ten counties.
At the peak of the crisis, as many as 100,000 people were under evacuation orders, with many residing in the flood plain of the Skagit River north of Seattle. Authorities have confirmed one fatality: a man who drove past warning signs into a flooded area.
Infrastructure Crippled and Long Road to Recovery
The flooding has severely damaged critical infrastructure. Key highways have been buried under mudslides or completely washed out, cutting off communities. Governor Ferguson stated it could be months before State Route 2, a vital link connecting western Washington cities with the Stevens Pass ski area and Leavenworth, can be reopened.
In the city of Pacific, Washington, a temporary flood barrier along the White River failed on 16 December 2025, necessitating repair work assisted by Washington National Guard personnel. Saturated levees have given way in several locations, leading to entire communities being inundated.
"We're in for the long haul," Ferguson emphasised during a news conference. "If you get an evacuation order, for God's sakes, follow it." He added that a full assessment of the damage will only be possible once waters recede and landslide risks subside.
More Storms Forecast as State Braces for Further Impact
The immediate crisis is far from over. The National Weather Service warns that more high water, mudslides, and power outages are in the forecast. Elevated rivers and significant flood risk are predicted to persist until at least late December.
Wind and flood watches and warnings are expected across much of the US north-west in the coming days as new storms bring further rain, heavy mountain snow, and high winds. The state and several counties are making several million dollars available for immediate assistance, such as hotel stays and groceries, pending more extensive federal aid which Ferguson expects to be approved.
