Washington State is currently experiencing one of its worst flooding crises for decades, as unprecedented levels of rainfall and rising rivers force widespread evacuations. A historic storm system with record rainfall across several regions has caused massive flooding across several counties putting thousands of residents at risk and emergency teams working around-the-clock urging residents to leave immediately due to rising waters and potential landslides. Local officials urge their constituents to leave immediately in order to stay safe.
Record-setting floods were caused by an atmospheric river that has brought heavy rain across Washington state, leading to rivers and streams to overflow to dangerous levels and flooding surrounding communities and threatening homes, businesses and infrastructure. Rain totals have even exceeded 6 inches – an astronomically high total for an area that typically experiences moderate precipitation levels during autumn and winter months. As a result, Snoqualmie, Skagit and Columbia rivers surged beyond their banks causing widespread flooding which threatened homes, businesses, infrastructure as well as surrounding communities.
Seattle and nearby towns including Bellevue, Redmond, and Kent have experienced widespread damage as floodwaters inundate streets, parks, and residential areas. Major roads including Interstate 5 have been closed due to flooding; disrupting both local and interstate travel as well as public transportation services and creating additional hardship for those caught up by rising waters. Public transportation systems may have also been disrupted; power outages in some areas further complicated the situation for those caught within its rising waves.
Local authorities have issued evacuation orders to thousands of affected residents in affected areas, while emergency responders have conducted search and rescue operations with limited success due to flooding. Evacuees have been directed towards nearby shelters where local organizations provide food, water and medical support.
Snohomish and Olympia have also been hard hit by flooding, with neighborhoods submerged under several feet of water in these communities already suffering from serious flooding issues. Homes and businesses in both communities have sustained damage; authorities warn that we won’t know the full extent of it until floodwaters recede.
Governor Jay Inslee declared a state of emergency in all affected counties, mobilizing all available state resources and personnel for relief and recovery efforts. He activated the National Guard for search-and-rescue operations while additional personnel have been deployed to set up emergency shelters. “This extreme weather event we have ever experienced,” Governor Inslee noted in a press conference. “We will do everything within our power to ensure their safety and well-being.”
While flooding remains of immediate concern, experts also warn of the threat posed by landslides in affected areas. Heavy rainfall has saturated the ground, making hillsides more vulnerable to sliding, particularly those located on steep terrain. With both threats combined – flooding and potential landslides – present, experts advise further evacuation orders be issued for rural areas with unstable ground.
Washington State’s flood management infrastructure is being put to the test. Rising waters from local rivers and streams have overwhelmed existing flood control systems in place in the state; authorities are working to release water from reservoirs as part of efforts to mitigate further damage and keep reservoirs full. Levees and flood barriers in certain areas are being closely monitored so as not to break under pressure of rising waters.
Following the flooding disaster, Missouri faces an uphill recovery journey. Many affected communities will require significant help rebuilding homes, businesses and infrastructure; damage to transportation networks and utilities will likely require weeks, or possibly longer, of repairs.
Floods have reignited discussions of climate change, highlighting its role in amplifying extreme weather events like those experienced this spring in Washington State and other Western Coast regions. Experts warn that Washington State faces an increased risk from these types of storms going forward, so investing in stronger flood defenses and disaster preparation plans is imperative to protecting itself against future storms.
Washington State is facing unprecedented floods that have forced out thousands of residents and caused widespread destruction, with emergency efforts still focused on saving lives and minimizing further damage. Longer term recovery and rebuilding efforts must also keep in mind climate change-linked extreme weather events, while taking proactive steps to minimize future risks.