Washington flooding 2025 hit hard in late December, driven by powerful atmospheric rivers delivering record rainfall to western Washington.
Causes of the 2025 Washington Floods
Multiple strong atmospheric rivers struck the Pacific Northwest starting early December 2025, dumping up to 16 inches of rain in the Cascades over days. Saturated soil from prior storms exacerbated runoff, swelling rivers rapidly.
Record-Breaking Skagit River Flooding
The Skagit River flooding 2025 set records:
- At Concrete: Crested near 40 ft with massive flow.
- At Mount Vernon: Highest level ever, surpassing 1990 record.
Nearly all western Washington rivers flooded, plus some east of the Cascades.
Evacuations and Rescues During Washington Floods 2025
Over 100,000 residents faced evacuation orders, especially along the Skagit north of Seattle, in Sumas (nearly 90% evacuated, waters up to 15 ft), Burlington, Kent, Auburn, and Tukwila.
Two levee breaches:
- Green River in Tukwila (Dec 15): Evacuated ~47,000.
- White River in Pacific (Dec 16): “Go Now” orders.
Over 600 rescues across 10 counties, including helicopters and boats. National Guard assisted door-to-door.
One fatality: Man drove into flooded road.
Infrastructure Damage and Power Outages
Major impacts:
- 50-mile U.S. Highway 2 closure near Stevens Pass (months expected).
- Other roads like SR 167, U.S. 12 closed.
Over 400,000 lost power from winds; 100,000+ still out mid-December.
Blizzard conditions in mountains. 3 “LARGE” 4 “LARGE”
Response and Recovery for Washington State Flooding 2025
Governor Bob Ferguson declared emergency, called damage “profound.” State allocated millions for aid; awaiting federal help.
Flood risks persisted into late December.
Stay informed on Washington floods 2025 updates and prepare for future atmospheric river events.