12/12/2025, 10:4112/12/2025, 10:41
Heavy rains have caused severe flooding in Washington state. Governor Bob Ferguson urged residents to leave affected areas following instructions from local authorities. Up to 100,000 people are affected by evacuations.
People had to be evacuated from their homes.Image: FR159797 AP
Ferguson spoke of a “historic” situation with regard to the high water levels. Over 30 major highways were closed to traffic. The governor has declared a state of emergency in order to quickly mobilize aid funds and personnel.
A state of emergency was declared.Image: FR159797 AP
The National Guard is helping with rescue operations in the flood areas. People were brought to safety by helicopters and boats. Dozens of rivers have burst their banks. Villages and fields are flooded.
Aerial view from Snohomish, Washington.Image: FR159797 AP
The reason for the heavy rainfall in the northwest of the USA is a weather phenomenon called “atmospheric river”. These bands of extremely moist air can bring heavy rain for several days. (sda/dpa)