‘We did what we could’: Mount Vernon residents prepare for flooding as Level 3 ‘Go Now’ orders issued

Level 3 “Go Now” orders have been issued in Mount Vernon, local authorities reported via Facebook around 4:45 p.m. Wednesday.

Mount Vernon residents living in the 100-year flood plain are urged to leave now and follow directions from 911, fire departments, or local government.

“We are currently at flood stage, and predicted levels would potentially cause significant flooding in the 100-year flood plain starting Thursday, December 11,” the City of Mount Vernon stated in a news release.

Recommended evacuation routes can be viewed on the city’s website.

“I-5 is outside the flood plain and can be used for travel,” officials stated. “The Division Street Bridge closes when the Skagit River reaches 36 feet. Based on current information (as of 4 p.m. 12/10/2025), the Division Street Bridge is likely to close at noon on Thursday, December 11.”

Residents in cars or RVs can go to Bakerview Park, but there is no power, no electricity, and no potable water.

Evacuees are advised to bring a wallet or purse that includes personal identification, house and car keys, needed medications, warm clothing, cell phones, eyeglasses, family pets, and cash.

Skagit County prepares to evacuate 75,000 people in low-lying areas

Meanwhile, Skagit County is still preparing to evacuate all 75,000 people in low-lying areas as the Skagit River nears record levels. Level 3 “Go Now” orders have not yet been issued for the entire county, but could be given as early as this evening.

“This is a very dangerous, complex, and rapidly evolving situation,” a spokesperson for Washington’s Emergency Management Division said at a news conference called by Governor Bob Ferguson Wednesday afternoon.

A number of rivers across western Washington are expected to reach or exceed record flood levels.

The National Weather Service (NWS) stated that “catastrophic” flooding could occur at the Skagit and Snohomish Rivers.

“Locally catastrophic flooding impacts are possible along Skagit and Snohomish Rivers,” NOAA’s National Water Center said Wednesday morning. “Major and/or record flooding is expected, bringing an increasing threat to life and property. Overtopping of levees is possible.”

Mount Vernon residents prepare for flooding

Downtown Mount Vernon sits on the bank of the Skagit River, making it vulnerable to flooding.

Downtown Mount Vernon sits on the bank of the Skagit River. (Photo: James Lynch, KIRO Newsradio)

“We’re getting ready to be underwater soon. So, we’re just trying to go to bed tonight knowing that we did what we could. You know, what happens, happens,” homeowner John Vandeland told KIRO Newsradio.

The Skagit River rising in Mount Vernon, Skagit County, WA pic.twitter.com/vFptWdJtJT

— James L. (@James_KIRORadio) December 10, 2025

People have been gathering sandbags at stations throughout Skagit County in preparation for flooding.

“We’re getting ready to evacuate. You know, make a list, shut off all the utilities, get the go-bag and medicine. That sort of stuff,” homeowner Don Danielson said as he was getting sandbags for his home.

Skagit County residents gather sandbags in preparation for flooding. (Photo: James Lynch, KIRO Newsradio)

Another resident is shutting down his business in preparation for flooding.

“I’m scared, nervous. I didn’t sleep well last night. We’re closing down and just gonna try to sandbag the back and hope no water comes inside,” barber Eric Stalcup, who runs Lee’s Barber shop in downtown Mount Vernon, said.

While levees are currently being overtopped in Skagit County, officials also noted Cowlitz County is seeing flooding issues, and the flood wall in Arlington is overtopped. Highway 12 is underwater, and the communities of Randle and Packwood are currently cut off.

Ferguson asks FEMA for emergency declaration

Ferguson announced he’ll be asking FEMA for an emergency declaration.

“We need the federal government to grant that request. This is critical,” he said at Wednesday’s news conference.

Ferguson shared a strong message for Washingtonians.

“We’re praying for, we’re doing everything we can to help you in your situation, and we also ask you to listen carefully to the experts who are providing information to you,” he said.

Level 3 ‘Go Now’ evacuations issued in Orting

Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Orting.

Central Pierce Fire & Rescue stated people living in the area of Williams Boulevard N.W., Mellinger Avenue N.W., and Stone Street N.W. need to evacuate now.

An additional Level 2 “Be Set” evacuation order has been issued for community members who live in the area near High Cedars Golf Course community, south of the Puyallup River near 150th Avenue E., 188th Street E., 184th Street E., 176th Street E., 168th Street E., off Pioneer Way E., 177th Street E., and Patterson Road E.

Evacuation areas can be viewed here.

Contributing: Frank Sumrall, MyNorthwest; James Lynch, KIRO Newsradio

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