Officials in Stanwood, Washington, are urging residents and businesses to heighten preparedness as dangerously high water levels along the Skagit River and nearby waterways continue to pose a significant flood threat. With forecasts showing the river rising toward record levels and floodplain impacts spreading across the region, local leaders, emergency managers, and state authorities are emphasizing proactive readiness and clear evacuation plans to protect lives and property.
The concerns stem from a powerful atmospheric river that has repeatedly drenched the Pacific Northwest with heavy rainfall over the past week, causing rivers throughout Western Washington to surge well above flood stage. The Skagit River, in particular, has been identified as a major area of risk, with water levels expected to crest at historic heights in multiple communities. Forecasters have warned that the river could exceed previous record marks set in 2021, stretching levees and flood defenses to their limits.
In response to the escalating situation, Skagit County officials have issued “GO NOW” evacuation notices for residents living within the 100-year floodplain, urging them to immediately seek higher ground and follow evacuation instructions without delay. The National Weather Service has highlighted the potential for both major flood events and flash flooding, especially if river levees or dikes are overtopped or weakened by persistent high waters.
Stanwood city leaders are echoing these concerns, urging residents to prepare emergency kits, secure homes and valuables, and monitor local alerts as conditions evolve. The Stanwood-Camano School District and city officials are coordinating with Snohomish and Island counties to assess flood risks and implement precautionary measures. Students, volunteers, and emergency crews have been assisting with sandbagging efforts and other preparations to bolster community resilience against potential flooding.
At the state level, Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency due to widespread flooding that has affected numerous rivers beyond the Skagit, including the Stillaguamish and Snohomish watersheds. This emergency declaration unlocks additional resources and support, and Ferguson has requested expedited federal disaster assistance to help communities respond and recover.
Authorities are stressing that even areas outside the official floodplain may experience dangerous conditions, such as road closures, landslides, and power outages as saturated soils and persistent rain weaken infrastructure. Local responders and the Washington National Guard are mobilized to assist with sandbagging, evacuations, and other emergency operations, as rising water continues to threaten homes, businesses, and critical transportation routes.
Residents are advised to pay close attention to official alerts, have clear evacuation plans, and keep essential supplies readily accessible. Officials remind the public that river conditions can change rapidly, and community cooperation is key to staying safe during this potentially historic flooding event.
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