ISTANBUL, Dec 12 - Washington ordered 100,000 residents to evacuate yesterday as catastrophic flooding continued across the western part of the state, with the worst impacts along the Skagit and Snohomish rivers.
“We anticipate potentially 100,000 Washingtonians facing evacuation orders,” said Governor Bob Ferguson, declaring a statewide emergency.
Skagit County issued a Level Three “GO NOW” evacuation order for all residents within the 100-year floodplain of the Skagit River, urging all to evacuate to high ground immediately without waiting.
The National Water Centre reported considerable small stream and moderate-to-major river flooding across the Western Cascade Foothills to Puget Sound, with widespread urban and minor-to-moderate river flooding possible through early today in the remainder of western Washington.
Skagit County closed all non-essential government services, including district and superior courts, due to flooding and hazardous conditions.
Essential services, including emergency management, public safety and road maintenance, continue to operate.
Washington National Guard troops are filling sandbags in Skagit County to support first responders assisting affected residents.
Eastside Fire and Rescue has rescued about 20 people stranded in their homes or vehicles over the past 24 to 48 hours, the Seattle Times reported.
The entire Washington congressional delegation has urged President Donald Trump to approve an expedited emergency declaration for the flooding.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, stay informed via official channels and follow safety and evacuation advisories.