BREAKING: Record Flooding Slams Snohomish County As Atmospheric River Peaks
The Snohomish River is roaring past old marks today, sending water into neighborhoods, farms, and roads. I am tracking flood gauges across the county this morning. Levels are cresting near 34.6 feet, above the 1990 benchmark by more than a foot. Levee overtopping is already happening in low spots. Crews are racing to hold lines, move people, and keep power and roads safe.
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What Is Happening Right Now
This is an atmospheric river, a Pineapple Express type, funneling warm, wet air straight into Western Washington. Rain rates were intense overnight. Mountain snow levels jumped. That means heavy runoff from both rain and snowmelt. The Snohomish, Skykomish, and Stillaguamish are all in major flood stage. The Snohomish is the standout, with water now pushing into broad parts of the valley.
Evacuations are underway in the city of Snohomish and nearby lowlands. I confirm water rescues on Lincoln Avenue, where rescue swimmers moved people and pets to safety. The state has declared an emergency. The National Guard is mobilized to support local teams with high water vehicles and logistics.
Roads are closing fast as water rises and debris slides. US 2 over Stevens Pass is shut. Eastbound I 90 has closures for rockfall and flooding. County parks and riverfront trails are closed, some are underwater. Expect more closures as rivers peak and spread.
If you are under a Level 3 order, leave now. Do not drive through floodwater. Turn around, find higher ground.
Why This Flood Turned Historic
Two drivers brought us here. First, the moisture feed is unusually strong and long. The plume stretches thousands of miles from the central Pacific. Second, the air is warm. Warmer air holds more water, so storms wring out more rain. Freezing levels jumped above the passes, so more runoff rushed downhill.
This is how climate change shows up in the Pacific Northwest. Heavy rain days are getting heavier. Rivers that once flirted with records now break them. Soils were already saturated from a wet week. Burn scars on nearby slopes are unstable. Add today’s surge, and the stage was set for a historic crest.
Safety, Preparedness, and What To Do Next
Most flood injuries happen in cars. Water hides sinkholes, downed wires, and fast currents. Even six inches can sweep you off your feet. Two feet can move a pickup.
- Check local alerts and follow evacuation orders right away.
- Charge phones, pack meds, documents, and pet supplies.
- Avoid hillsides with recent burn scars, slides can happen with little warning.
- Keep kids away from creeks, storm drains, and levees.
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If you live near the Snohomish, move your car, chemicals, and tools to higher ground now. Take photos of your home for insurance before you leave.
Forecasters see a window of lighter rain later today. Another wet pulse may arrive soon after. Rivers will respond slowly, so high water will last into the weekend. Levee patrols are ongoing. Watch for rapid changes near bends, confluences, and tide influenced stretches closer to the estuary.
Roads, Services, and Environmental Impacts
Several county roads are impassable, with water, mud, and logs across lanes. Expect closures near river crossings and low farm roads. Some wastewater sites are under stress, so avoid contact with floodwater. It can contain fuel, sewage, and sharp debris.
Floodplain farms are taking on water. Livestock shelters are active. Salmon side channels are blown out in places, but floods also rebuild habitat over time. That is the paradox here. These big flows reshape rivers, which can help fish. They also hit communities and levees that were built for a cooler, quieter past.
Building Long Term Flood Resilience
We cannot sandbag our way out of this alone. The valley needs room for the river. That means levee setbacks, floodplain buyouts where needed, higher home elevations, and stronger culverts. It also means wetlands, beaver complexes, and forest restoration that slow water in the uplands.
Early warning sensors, updated flood maps, and community shelters save lives. Green streets with more trees, rain gardens, and permeable pavements reduce runoff. Every layer helps. The goal is simple, keep people safe, cut damage, and let the river breathe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How high will the Snohomish River get?
A: The crest is near 34.6 feet today, more than a foot above the 1990 record. Flooding will remain severe for hours.
Q: Is more rain coming?
A: Yes. A brief break is likely, then another surge of moisture may arrive soon. Rivers will stay high into the weekend.
Q: Where are the biggest risks now?
A: Levee low points, bends in the river, confluences, and areas near burn scars. Watch for landslides on saturated slopes.
Q: What should I do if I am cut off?
A: Move to your highest safe floor, call for help, signal rescuers, and do not enter floodwater. Wait for official rescue.
Q: How can I protect my home for next time?
A: Elevate utilities, install backflow valves, raise critical items, seal foundation gaps, and consider flood insurance.
Conclusion
Snohomish County is living through a watershed moment today. The river is telling us our climate is changing, and our defenses must change with it. Stay safe, listen to local orders, and look out for neighbors. When the water falls, the work begins. Building smarter, giving the river room, and planning ahead will decide how we weather the next one.
