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Yakima River Swells to 30-Year High
13 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Yakima River expected to crest at 15.8 feet, highest in nearly 30 years.
- An intense atmospheric river is causing flooding across Washington state.
- Residents are filling sandbags to protect homes and property from rising waters.
Floodwaters on the Yakima River are surging to alarming levels, with predictions indicating a crest of 15.8 feet, the highest in nearly three decades. This dramatic rise, significantly above its usual 5-foot level, is attributed to an intense atmospheric river impacting Western Washington and sending rain across the Cascade Mountains.
Residents across the lower Yakima River valley, from Benton City to Richland, are mobilizing to combat the rising waters. Many have been seen filling sandbags at local fire stations to construct protective barriers. Businesses like the West Richland Golf Course are already experiencing flooding, with parts of the course and boat launch areas becoming inaccessible.
Statewide, Governor Bob Ferguson has declared an emergency due to widespread flooding, with thousands facing evacuation orders, particularly in the Skagit Valley. Fourteen Washington counties are under flood watches as the storm continues to cause significant disruptions to transportation and communities.
