BURLINGTON, Wash. – Cleanup efforts are ongoing in Skagit County following last week’s historic flood, despite forecasts warning of another storm bringing heavy rainfall that could raise river levels once again.
The Skagit River registered approximately 36 feet on Tuesday, roughly 2 feet below its peak of nearly 38 feet on Friday. However, authorities anticipate a rise in levels as another storm approaches. The flooding of the Skagit River, a significant tributary of Puget Sound (a natural fjord defining much of Washington’s western coast), inundated roads and neighborhoods last week, breaking records and prompting the activation of the National Guard. At least nine people were rescued in the county over two days. The National Guard serves as a reserve military force, providing support during emergencies.
In Burlington, Mario Rincon sifted through the remnants of his flooded home. Approximately 3 feet of water had inundated the house on Friday.
“There’s a series of emotions that are difficult to explain at this moment,” Rincon stated.
The damage has been particularly challenging for the family. Rincon’s wife gave birth to their third child just 10 days before the flood.
“It was a very joyful moment, but at the same time, we have moments where we see the cameras, see the devastation, not only to our house but to the people around us,” he said.
U.S. Congressman Rick Larsen visited parts of Burlington and Mount Vernon following the approval of federal disaster aid for Washington after the storm. With another round of heavy rainfall forecast, Mount Vernon is once again under a significant flood alert. It’s important to remember that Mount Vernon is a key city in Skagit County.
Mount Vernon Mayor Peter Donovan urged residents to remain prepared, despite the fatigue from repeated warnings.
“There may be some fatigue from hearing emergency messages, but the reality is that a significant flood is approaching, and we hope people remain packed and ready,” Donovan said.
For Rincon, the cleanup has meant discarding items saved for his newborn child, including secondhand items contaminated by floodwaters. With more rain threatening the region less than two weeks before Christmas, he said he is focusing on what matters most.
“I’m grateful that everyone is okay,” Rincon said.
Federal aid will cover up to 75% of eligible damage costs, although the total amount has yet to be determined.
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