Wed Dec 17 07:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text, focusing on the key events and overall impact:
Western Washington Grapples with Flooding, Landslides, and Travel Chaos
SEATTLE, WA – Western Washington is reeling from a deluge of heavy rain and strong winds that has triggered widespread flooding, landslides, and travel disruptions. Evacuation orders are in place across multiple counties, with a levee breach in Pacific causing significant damage and prompting emergency responses.
Early Tuesday morning, a levee on the White River in Pacific failed, leading to “Go Now” Level 3 evacuations as floodwaters inundated neighborhoods. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Guard, and other state partners are working to secure the breach with sandbags. Valley Regional Fire Authority is assisting with evacuations.
Further north, the Town of Concrete is facing a double threat of flooding from the Skagit River and multiple landslides. Evacuation notices have been issued for residents in landslide-prone areas, with Washington State Task Force-1 activated to assist with search and rescue efforts.
The Green River also overflowed, causing a levee breach in Tukwila which prompted evacuations in areas downstream. Flood warnings remain in effect for multiple rivers across the region, including the Skagit, Snoqualmie, Green, White, and Skykomish, with forecasts predicting further rises.
The weather has also impacted travel, with several major roadways closed. US 2 between Leavenworth and Skykomish is shut down indefinitely due to a highway washout and SR 167 and SR 410 are experiencing closures.
A powerful windstorm knocked out power to thousands, and a blizzard warning is in effect for the Cascade and Olympic Mountains, threatening hazardous travel conditions with heavy snow and gusty winds.
Governor Bob Ferguson and King County Executive Zahilay addressed the crisis in a Tuesday news conference, emphasizing the severity of the situation. Shelters have been opened for evacuees in multiple locations, and organizations are providing assistance to those affected by the flooding.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for ongoing rain, high winds, and blizzard conditions, urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
First Piper 