Washington Flood Crisis Now: Water Reaches Roofs in Sumas and Everson, Forcing Water Rescues and Mass Evacuations in Whatcom County

Published on December 12, 2025

In Sumas, Everson, and neighboring towns in Whatcom County, Washington, residents have faced frightening scenes as floodwaters climbed to roof level amid the ongoing Pacific Northwest flood crisis. Following heavy rainfall and river levels surging past those seen in the devastating 2021 floods, emergency officials have carried out water rescues, mass evacuations, and critical infrastructure shutdowns, prompting urgent travel advisories and community response efforts.

What once were quiet neighborhoods now resemble inland waterways as the Nooksack River — swollen by persistent storms associated with an atmospheric river system — overtopped levees and inundated streets, homes, and businesses. Authorities are urging residents and travelers alike to avoid the area as emergency crews continue rescue operations and damage assessments.

Historic Flood Levels Trigger Evacuations and Emergency Response

Local emergency management teams, including Whatcom Ready and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, have reported that the Nooksack River has risen even higher than during the major 2021 flood, a benchmark event that caused widespread destruction across the region.

On Wednesday, city and county officials ordered the evacuation of residents in Sumas, Everson, Nooksack, Marietta, and parts of Ferndale, as floodwaters surged through low‑lying areas. Streets were submerged, and some businesses alongside city buildings — including Everson City Hall — sustained water damage. Officials are conducting ongoing assessments to determine the full extent of property loss and structural impacts.

A Whatcom County flood update explained that heavy rainfall shifted the forecast from moderate flooding to major flooding, leading to additional hazards such as a mudslide on Silver Lake Road, a landslide in Kendall, and several bridge closures across the county. Water overtopped some levees, and potential damage at the Twin View dike has increased concerns for future inundation.

Major Roads, Border Crossing, and Infrastructure Impacted

The flooding has not only displaced residents but also severely restricted travel in the region. The border crossing at Sumas — a key entry point between the United States and Canada — was closed after water overtopped roadways and made access unsafe. Overnight evacuations in that area were necessary to protect both travelers and residents.

Bridge closures and washed‑out roadway segments have complicated travel and emergency response, leaving officials urging everyone to avoid flooded areas and obey all road closure signs. Whatcom County Public Works and partner agencies are actively monitoring road conditions, and closures remain in place where risks are highest.

Communities Brace for Continued Flooding and Aftermath

While crews continue to assist residents and evaluate damage, many families remain displaced, relying on temporary shelter resources provided by local authorities. Shelters in Lynden and other nearby towns have been set up to house families evacuated from their homes through Friday night, with county officials emphasizing continued monitoring and community support.

Emergency officials have repeatedly urged those in affected communities to prepare for further water level rises, bring essential items including medicine and food, and stay tuned to official alerts from the National Weather Service and Whatcom Ready. Rapidly changing river conditions, combined with a saturated watershed, have raised concerns that additional flooding could occur if the storms persist.

Why the Nooksack River Flooded and What It Means for the Region

The Nooksack River, which drains the northern slopes of the Cascades and into lowland areas near the Canadian border, has a well‑documented history of flooding when heavy rains coincide with saturated soils and snow melt. Historical flood events in this region — including significant floods in 1990, 2006, and the catastrophic 2021 floods — have shown just how quickly the river can overtop banks and impact communities.

This current flood event forms part of a broader pattern of 2025 Pacific Northwest floods, where atmospheric rivers have saturated the region since early December, leading to river levels that are among the highest in recent memory and prompting a statewide emergency declaration by the Governor of Washington.

The severe weather has not only tested local emergency response systems but also drawn attention to long‑standing concerns about flood mitigation infrastructure and regional cooperation on flood management — issues officials have revisited following past disasters.

Travel and Safety Advisory for Residents and Visitors

For anyone planning to travel through northwestern Washington, authorities strongly advise avoiding areas near Sumas, Everson, Nooksack, and Ferndale until floodwaters recede and roads are fully reopened. Alternate travel routes should be sought well in advance, and visitors should monitor official sources such as the National Weather Service and Whatcom County emergency alerts for real‑time updates on flood conditions and travel restrictions.

Residents in risk zones are encouraged to stay informed about evacuation orders, utilize emergency “Go Bags” with essentials ready, and seek shelter at designated evacuation sites if directed. As conditions evolve rapidly, community safety remains the primary focus for local and state authorities.

Conclusion: A Community Mobilizes Amid Historic Flooding

What began as heavy rains has transformed into a major flooding event with significant impacts on homes, infrastructure, and travel in western Washington. With water reaching roof lines, evacuations underway, and emergency teams working around the clock, the region is facing one of the most serious flood episodes in recent years. The response from first responders, county agencies, and community volunteers highlights the resilience of local residents, even as recovery efforts are just beginning.

Travelers, residents, and nearby communities must remain vigilant, prepared, and informed as conditions continue to unfold. The hope remains that coordinated efforts and early action will help minimize further losses and keep everyone safe as the floodwaters slowly recede.