A powerful atmospheric river storm has unleashed days of torrential rainfall across the Pacific Northwest, swelling rivers to historic levels, inundating communities, and forcing widespread evacuations in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia.

The relentless downpour pushed major waterways including the Skagit, Snohomish, and Puyallup rivers far beyond flood stage. Several gauges recorded levels approaching or surpassing long-standing records as the region’s saturated landscape struggled to absorb additional rain.

Emergency officials issued Level 3 “go now” evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents in Washington state, with some estimates approaching 100,000 people in affected river basins. Entire neighborhoods and in some cases, entire cities have been ordered to evacuate, including large portions of Burlington and low-lying communities along the Skagit River.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency, mobilizing rapid-response teams, the National Guard, and state resources to support rescue efforts. Helicopter airlifts, swift-water rescues, and door-to-door evacuations continued into Friday as water levels rose faster than anticipated in several areas.

Flooding and debris flows have caused significant infrastructure damage. More than 30 highways across the region have been closed due to washouts, high water, or landslides. In British Columbia, key highways leading into Vancouver were shut down amid reports of falling rock, rising rivers, and avalanche risks.

While rainfall eased in parts of the region late Friday, forecasters warned that flood dangers will remain elevated for days. Many rivers are still rising, and additional storm systems may bring renewed rainfall next week.

Authorities are urging residents in at-risk areas to stay alert, follow local emergency guidance, and avoid attempting to travel through floodwaters. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.