The Pacific Northwest region, encompassing parts of the United States and Canada, is experiencing severe weather conditions, prompting preparations for extensive flooding. An atmospheric river event has delivered heavy rainfall to areas with already elevated river levels.
United States Situation
The US National Weather Service has issued warnings for potentially catastrophic flooding in Oregon and Washington, specifically impacting the Skagit and Snohomish river basins. Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency on Wednesday, November 29, anticipating potential evacuation orders for approximately 100,000 residents. The declaration highlighted that continued precipitation, including rain and mountain snow, could exacerbate flood conditions and disrupt supply chains and transportation infrastructure.
In Skagit County, a significant agricultural region north of Seattle, an immediate evacuation order has been issued for residents within the floodplain. Officials from the Washington Military Department's Emergency Management Division indicated that up to 75,000 individuals might be evacuated from low-lying areas along the Skagit River.
Snohomish County authorities reported multiple helicopter rescues of individuals trapped in their homes in Sultan, Washington, approximately 65 kilometers northeast of Seattle. The Skykomish River in the eastern part of the county crested above 7 meters overnight, nearing a record level. The Snohomish River is also experiencing significant flooding, with water levels approaching local flood defenses.
Road closures are widespread across King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties due to flooding. In Pierce County, a swiftwater rescue team evacuated three individuals from an RV park in Orting, located about 68 kilometers south of Seattle.
Canadian Situation
In Canada, major highways leading to Vancouver have been closed as a result of flooding, debris accumulation, and an increased risk of avalanches.
Thousands of individuals across both the US and Canada are subject to existing evacuation orders, with further rainfall projected for Thursday, November 30.