Story perspectives

Historic Flooding Devastates Washington; Governor Seeks Disaster Aid

12/21/2025

Summary

Story summary

Washington state faces severe flooding after a historic atmospheric river dumped more than nine million acre-feet of water in ten days.
The prolonged storm overwhelmed local rivers, caused significant damage, and resulted in at least one fatality.
Governor Ferguson is gathering damage assessments to support a federal disaster declaration.
Communities such as Concrete are beginning to return to normal as emergency resources shift and mudslide concerns persist.

History

Historical Context

The 1996 Pacific Northwest floods, caused by heavy rain and snowmelt, devastated Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, resulting in approximately $800 million in damages. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided assistance, while President Bill Clinton toured affected areas. Today’s flooding, with over nine million acre-feet of water in ten days, underscores ongoing vulnerabilities and the need for improved disaster preparedness in these regions.

1 of 2

Story summary

Washington state faces severe flooding after a historic atmospheric river dumped more than nine million acre-feet of water in ten days.
The prolonged storm overwhelmed local rivers, caused significant damage, and resulted in at least one fatality.
Governor Ferguson is gathering damage assessments to support a federal disaster declaration.
Communities such as Concrete are beginning to return to normal as emergency resources shift and mudslide concerns persist.

1 / 2