WASHINGTON STATE – Severe storms and flooding have prompted Washington state’s entire Congressional delegation to request an emergency declaration from President Donald Trump. The request follows Governor Bob Ferguson’s declaration of a statewide emergency on December 10.
Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, led the delegation in urging quick approval of the emergency declaration.
“This storm is threatening lives, property and livestock in every corner of Washington,” Murray said. She emphasized the widespread impacts on transportation, with major highways closed due to mudslides and rising water.
Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04), alongside other delegation members, highlighted the situation on the Yakima River, where flooding has isolated communities and closed major routes.
“We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible,” the delegation wrote to President Trump.
The National Weather Service predicts more than a dozen rivers in Washington will experience major flooding in the coming days.
Skagit County is preparing for significant losses, with some areas potentially seeing floodwaters rise five feet higher than existing records.
The delegation expressed gratitude to local, state, tribal and federal officials for their rapid response. “Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives,” Murray said.
An expedited emergency declaration would enable federal assistance with debris removal and emergency protective measures, aiding the state’s recovery efforts.
The full letter can be viewed here.
