“WCSO’s rescue vehicles have been able to reach many people and boats have been used in areas where the water is too deep. These efforts will continue throughout the night,” the statement said. Officials said hundreds of residents were moved to three shelters “quickly set up” in the county.
In Skagit County, Mount Vernon residents were advised on Monday to evacuate ahead of a record flood expected on the Skagit River on Tuesday.
Parts of the city, about 60 miles north of Seattle, are protected by levees and residents in those neighborhoods should keep an eye out for emergency announcements.
“Evacuation is the best option for residents to protect themselves during a severe flood,” a statement from the city said.
CNN weather producer Robert Shackelford said Mount Vernon is under a flood warning through late Wednesday. The area has received two to four inches of rain in the past 48 hours and could see another four inches over the next five days, Shackelford said.
Fourteen counties are covered by the claim, including Clallam, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, Lewis, King, Kitsap, Pierce, Mason, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston and Whatcom counties.
“This inclement weather order directs that plans and procedures for the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan be implemented,” the statement said.
Officials in the city of Sumas said flooding was slowing efforts to restore power.
“We are so grateful to all of the dispatchers, first responders, city staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to help our residents today… Tomorrow morning, We will continue to try to reach our isolated populations and provide as much help and support as we can,” the post said.
CNN’s Robert Shackelford and Jenn Selva contributed to this report.
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