Communities across the Pacific Northwest and western Canada are preparing for dangerous, potentially life‑threatening flooding after days of relentless rainfall pushed rivers and tributaries to critical levels.

The National Water Center reported on Thursday that the Skagit and Snohomish rivers in Washington state were already experiencing significant flooding, with conditions expected to worsen through Friday.

In Canada, flooding, debris flows, and avalanche risks forced the closure of major highways leading into Vancouver, cutting off key transportation routes.

Thousands of residents on both sides of the border remain under evacuation orders, and officials warn that more heavy rain is on the way.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency, estimating that as many as 100,000 people could ultimately be ordered to leave their homes. The declaration noted that additional rainfall — and snow at higher elevations — could intensify already severe flooding.

Although no fatalities have been reported, Governor Ferguson cautioned that the danger is far from over. He told CNN that the Skagit River is expected to crest at “historic” levels on Friday morning and warned that recovery from the storm could take weeks. He has requested federal assistance to support the state’s response.

In Orting, south of Seattle, an evacuation order was lifted, but local fire officials urged residents to stay alert. “Turn around, don’t drown,” Central Pierce Fire and Rescue reminded the public on X.

More than 30 highways across Washington have been shut down, including routes used by Seattle-area commuters. Flooding has affected nearly all of western Washington and extended south along the Oregon coast.

Skagit County — a major agricultural region north of Seattle — issued an immediate evacuation order for residents living on the floodplain. Officials estimate that roughly 75,000 people may need to leave low‑lying areas.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warned that the Skagit River is expected to produce “severe near-record flooding” from Rockport to Sedro Woolley, with “deep and swift” waters posing extreme danger in communities such as Cape Horn, Hamilton, and Thunderbird.

Rescue operations are underway statewide, using inflatable boats and helicopters to reach stranded residents. The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office reported multiple air rescues overnight in the town of Sultan, where people became trapped in their homes as water levels rose.

Officials say the Snohomish River is experiencing major flooding and is “dancing with records” as water pushes against a local flood wall.

Authorities in King and Snohomish counties warn that road closures could persist for several days as the region braces for additional rainfall.