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100,000 Evacuated as Rivers Crest, State of Emergency Declared

12/13/2025

39 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Up to 100,000 residents face evacuation orders as Skagit and Snohomish rivers crest at record levels.
Governor Bob Ferguson (Washington) declared a state of emergency and activated 300 National Guard members.
The storm caused road closures and hazards with falling rocks and avalanche risks in British Columbia.
As rainfall subsides, recovery remains hindered by saturated soil and prior damage.

History

Historical Context

The Great Flood of 1990 in Washington was preceded by significant snowfall and heavy rainfall, leading to extensive evacuations and emergency declarations. Governor Booth Gardner deployed over 1,000 National Guard troops for recovery efforts. Today’s record river crests in Skagit and Snohomish reflect ongoing vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for improved flood management strategies in the region to address infrastructure challenges.

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Story summary

Up to 100,000 residents face evacuation orders as Skagit and Snohomish rivers crest at record levels.
Governor Bob Ferguson (Washington) declared a state of emergency and activated 300 National Guard members.
The storm caused road closures and hazards with falling rocks and avalanche risks in British Columbia.
As rainfall subsides, recovery remains hindered by saturated soil and prior damage.

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