Live Updates: Estimated 75,000 Ordered to Evacuate in Skagit County Amid Historic Flooding
Heavy rains have caused the Skagit River to rise to potentially record-breaking levels, prompting urgent evacuation orders across Skagit County. Officials estimate that about 75,000 residents living within the county’s 100-year floodplain must evacuate to higher ground immediately as floodwaters threaten homes and businesses.
The National Weather Service reports the Skagit River near Concrete is expected to crest at 48 feet around 4 a.m. Thursday, exceeding previous records. In Mount Vernon, the river is forecasted to peak at 42 feet around 4 a.m. Friday. The river remains in moderate to minor flood stages, while nearby Whatcom County’s Nooksack River is also rising, with major flooding expected around 10 p.m. Wednesday.
Local authorities have issued Level 3 evacuation orders for Mount Vernon and upriver communities including Hamilton, Rockport, Marblemount, and Concrete. Mount Vernon Fire Chief Bryan Harris emphasized, “a large portion of the population who lives in the floodplain” must leave immediately. Due to limited shelter capacity, residents are encouraged to seek refuge with family, friends, or hotels outside flood-prone areas.
The American Red Cross has opened shelters in partnership with local agencies but acknowledges that resources may fall short given the scale of evacuations. Red Cross Communications Manager Kristin Goodwillie noted that shelter availability is fluid as the situation evolves. Meanwhile, emergency responders and National Guard troops are mobilized to assist with evacuations and rescues.
Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency and requested expedited federal assistance to secure critical resources such as helicopters and emergency personnel. He stressed the unprecedented severity of this flooding event: “This is something no local resident has ever experienced or their ancestors.”
Additional flood watches and warnings remain in effect through Friday night for Skagit and Whatcom counties. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, follow official instructions, and prepare for ongoing impacts. Road closures and power outages have been reported, and some clinics and public services have temporarily suspended operations.
Public safety officials plan to conduct door-to-door check-ins Thursday morning to ensure compliance with evacuation orders. The situation is rapidly developing, and residents should continuously monitor updates from local emergency management for new directives.
Read more at: www.cascadiadaily.com-
-
-
-
