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Waters Recede in Washington and B.C., Highway 1 Reopens as Next Storms Near

Officials warn saturated ground leaves a high risk of renewed flooding plus landslides.

Overview

  • The National Weather Service and Environment Canada forecast another atmospheric river late Sunday into Monday with additional systems possible later in the week, raising the threat of renewed river rises.
  • President Donald Trump approved a federal emergency for Washington on December 12, unlocking FEMA cost‑sharing to support response and recovery.
  • The Skagit and Snohomish rivers hit record or near‑record crests, triggering mass evacuations and dozens of water rescues, and Washington officials reported no fatalities.
  • In B.C.’s Fraser Valley, Abbotsford says waters have peaked and are dropping; Highway 1 reopened in both directions Sunday with cautions about short‑notice closures, and police reported one flood‑related death.
  • Infrastructure damage remains extensive with major road and bridge washouts, including prolonged closures on US‑2, and isolated communities such as Stehekin facing disrupted power, water and access.