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Washington Floods Force Months-Long US 2 Closure as State Seeks Major Disaster Aid

Gov. Bob Ferguson unlocked $3.5 million for immediate relief.

Overview

  • WSDOT reports major washouts through Tumwater Canyon, and US 2 between Skykomish and Leavenworth faces months of closure, with detours via US 97 and SR 28.
  • State and National Guard teams have conducted more than 1,200 rescues and evacuations across at least 10 counties, with one storm-related death confirmed in Snohomish County.
  • The governor amended the emergency proclamation to activate short-term cash and benefit programs and has identified $3.5 million that can be deployed without legislative action.
  • Washington is compiling damage assessments to request a federal major disaster declaration that would open FEMA and SBA assistance for individuals, businesses and local governments.
  • Officials report rivers at historic levels and warn of high winds up to 60 mph over saturated ground, heightening risks of falling trees, power outages and new road failures.