SPOKANE, WASHINGTON – A powerful atmospheric river continues to drench the Pacific Northwest, pushing rivers in Washington state toward major flood stages and prompting mandatory evacuations in several communities.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple flood warnings as heavy rain overwhelms rivers across the region. In response, Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency and activated the National Guard. By Wednesday night, 100 service members were on duty, with an additional 200 expected by Thursday to assist with flood response efforts.
Flood warnings are in effect for the Wenatchee River at Peshastin, the Entiat River near Ardenvoir, and the Stehekin River at Stehekin. The Wenatchee River is expected to exceed 15 feet between Leavenworth and Wenatchee—the highest level since 2006—with the warning continuing through Friday afternoon. The Entiat River, forecast to surpass 7.5 feet, has not exceeded 8 feet since the 1970s, with minor flooding expected through Thursday. The Stehekin River, currently at 26.4 feet, causes minor flooding when it reaches 24 feet, prompting local alerts.
Evacuations have also been issued near the Puyallup River in Orting, where roads are already flooded. Floodwaters may continue through Thursday, affecting surrounding streets. Over the next several days, more than a dozen rivers are forecast to reach major flood stage. Key rivers in populated areas include the Cedar River at Renton and the Snohomish River at Snohomish, both projected to crest near record levels by Friday. Rising waters could inundate roads and homes, with evacuations likely if flood stages are reached.
Transportation disruptions are already occurring. Amtrak Cascades announced service suspensions between Seattle and Vancouver, Canada, on Dec. 11 and 12 due to high levels of the Skagit River, while services south of Seattle continue as scheduled.
Emergency crews in Snohomish have been busy with early flooding. On Tuesday, Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue responded to multiple calls, using inflatable kayaks to assist drivers trapped in floodwaters. Officials are urging residents to avoid flooded roads, obey road closure signs, and never attempt to drive through standing water.
I just signed a statewide emergency declaration in response to the intense flooding in our state this week.
— Governor Bob Ferguson (@GovBobFerguson) December 10, 2025
This allows us to seek federal funds to cover the cost of this response, which we anticipate will be significant, and also gives us the flexibility we need to respond… pic.twitter.com/fIvBI9HZL6
Active Swiftwater Recoveries going on in Orting, WA pic.twitter.com/l5qIAtqgl9
— Pierce Co Sheriff (@PierceSheriff) December 10, 2025