The relentless downpour characteristic of Pacific Northwest rain has intensified, with an atmospheric river causing widespread flooding across the region. This powerful storm system has hit the West Coast hard, leading to significant disruptions and leaving residents bracing for more wet weather as the area grapples with the aftermath of heavy Pacific Northwest rain.
An atmospheric river, essentially a river in the sky transporting vast amounts of moisture, delivered a deluge of relentless rain. This system saturated soils across Washington and Oregon, with the intense rainfall beginning around Tuesday, December 9, 2025. The sheer volume of Pacific Northwest rain saturated the ground, contributing to the rapid rise of waterways.
Record Rainfall and Flooding Grips Region from Pacific Northwest Rain
Specific areas experienced impressive rainfall totals. Paradise on Mount Rainier recorded 3.25 inches in just 10 hours, while other locations in Washington’s Cascade Mountains saw rates near or exceeding a half-inch per hour. Lowland areas received between 2 to 6 inches of rain, but the mountains received even more, up to 10 inches, a testament to the intensity of the Pacific Northwest rain.
This precipitation led to severe flooding, with rivers beginning to rise rapidly and many swelling above flood stage. Major rivers like the Chehalis, Skagit, and Snohomish are forecast to crest, with some potentially breaking historical records. The Chehalis River in Lewis County experienced major flooding, rendering roads impassable and submerging them under deep, swift water, a common consequence of prolonged Pacific Northwest rain.
High-Water Rescues and Evacuations Due to West Coast Storms
Emergency crews have performed numerous high-water rescues, pulling people from stranded vehicles and even from flooded campsites in wooded areas. Fire officials northeast of Seattle used kayaks to navigate flooded campsites and save lives. In Chehalis, Washington, a family of six required rescue as their home became surrounded by about four feet of water. Along Interstate 5, firefighters rescued five people whose vehicles were overcome by floodwaters, highlighting the dangers of these West Coast storms. Lewis County itself declared a state of emergency due to the overwhelming Pacific Northwest rain and subsequent flooding.
Official Response and Road Closures Amidst Washington Oregon Flooding
The Washington State Emergency Operations Center was activated to its highest level of readiness, reflecting the severity of the situation caused by the Washington Oregon flooding. Many roads closed due to the flooding, and debris slides also made travel hazardous. Eastbound Interstate 90 near North Bend faced closures, and I-5 exits in Lewis County were also shut down. Schools announced closures and delays as a precaution against the flooding risks associated with the persistent Pacific Northwest rain.
Looking Ahead: More Rain Expected After Atmospheric River Flooding
The atmospheric river, described by meteorologists as a “jet stream of moisture,” is a complex weather event. While the initial pulse has moved south, more rain is expected to shift back northward, raising concerns about continued river flooding and landslide risks, especially in steep terrain and burn scar areas. This event is a stark reminder of the potential for atmospheric river flooding.
Another storm system is anticipated to arrive starting Sunday, meaning the unsettled weather pattern will likely continue, potentially extending through the holiday season. The West Coast faces a prolonged period of wet conditions. Residents are urged to stay informed, monitor local alerts and forecasts closely, and prepare for potential impacts. This region is no stranger to heavy weather, but the current event, marked by significant Pacific Northwest rain, poses considerable challenges, with the forecast suggesting further disruptions for the Top news stories in the West.
