Washington state flood waters receding after days of rescues and evacuations

Record-breaking floodwaters in Washington state are slowly receding after days of widespread devastation caused by an atmospheric river that dumped over a foot of rain. The flooding inundated neighborhoods, prompted numerous water rescues and evacuations, and damaged infrastructure. Governor Bob Ferguson confirmed an emergency declaration approved by the president, but reported no fatalities. Tens of thousands of residents in the Skagit River floodplain, including those in Burlington, were under evacuation orders, with National Guard troops assisting. While water levels have begun to drop in some areas, authorities warn of continued flood risks and the potential for more precipitation. The Skagit River in Mount Vernon reached record levels, but a flood wall protected the downtown area.

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