The Skagit County floods are a stark reminder of the power of nature, as the region braces for historic flooding. The flooding in Washington state, particularly in Skagit County, has prompted widespread evacuations and a state of emergency. The Skagit River flooding has led to major road closures, school cancellations, and disruptions to services and activities, affecting thousands of residents.
Governor Jay Inslee has declared a state of emergency, and the National Weather Service predicts that upriver communities, including Rockport, Hamilton, Marblemount, and Concrete, are in the direct line of historic flooding. The Skagit River, north of Seattle, has already reached near-record levels, prompting evacuation notices for low-lying communities. Residents are urged to prepare for the worst as the river swells, with predictions of major flooding in Sedro Woolley, Mount Vernon, and other downstream areas.
School closings and evacuations have been ordered in anticipation of the severe flooding. KARE 11 reported that multiple schools in Skagit County have been closed as a precautionary measure, ensuring the safety of students and staff amid the ongoing crisis. This move comes as part of a broader effort to mitigate the risks posed by the flooding, which has affected various parts of western Washington.
The Skagit River, which meanders through the valleys between the Cascades and Puget Sound, is one of the two rivers in Washington state experiencing particularly high flood risks, the other being the Snohomish River. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a flood warning for Skagit County, with river levels expected to exceed major flooding thresholds of 32.5 feet in Concrete and 32 feet in Mount Vernon. The Emergency Operations Center is working tirelessly with partner agencies to ensure the safety of residents.
Heavy rain and strong winds continue to batter Puget Sound, causing major flooding and road closures. The situation has led to evacuation notices being sent out to multiple areas in western Washington, including Snohomish County, which declared a state of emergency due to flooding in multiple rivers. The impact of the atmospheric river bringing heavy rain has been significant, with the Grays River in Washington reaching a record-breaking 33.3 feet in Rosburg. The Snohomish and Skagit Rivers are particularly at risk, given their locations north of Seattle.
The Skagit River near Mount Vernon has reached a level corresponding to a Phase 2 flood in the Skagit County flood system. This means that flood waters will likely inundate some low-lying roads, farmlands, and residential areas, making it crucial for residents to heed evacuation orders and follow the guidance of local authorities.
The situation in Skagit County and the broader region highlights the severe impact of flooding in Washington state. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow the advice of emergency services as the community navigates this challenging time. The state's response, including the declaration of a state of emergency and the coordination of evacuation efforts, underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for preparedness in the face of such natural disasters.
