Update 3:19 pm: In the Snoqualmie downtown district, due to increasing water levels, it is advised that people and vehicles stay off the roads. Open roads need to be clear for first responder access. Expect flooding over roadways.
Update 3:07 pm: Eastbound Interstate 90 is closed between Winery Road (milepost 27) and 436th Avenue Southeast (milepost 32) because of a slide blocking the roadway. There is no estimated time to reopen eastbound I-90. People should seek alternate routes during this closure.
Update 2:41 pm: Governor Bob Ferguson issued an emergency proclamation on Wednesday in response to the significant atmospheric river and winter weather event bringing high winds and widespread flood warnings across Washington. The proclamation cites the current and expected impacts to life, health, property, and infrastructure as a public disaster, and directs the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan to be implemented statewide.
It authorizes the Washington National Guard and the State Guard to serve on temporary state active duty through December 31, as needed, to protect life and property. The proclamation also temporarily exempts commercial drivers transporting livestock feed products and dairy farm supplies from hours-of-service rules, with the exception of motor carriers under out-of-service orders or without a satisfactory FMCSA safety rating.
Read the full governor’s proclamation here.
Heavy rain across the Snoqualmie Valley has pushed rivers to major flood levels, triggered landslides, and prompted emergency declarations in both Snoqualmie and North Bend, with widespread road closures reported throughout the region.
Officials warn that conditions may worsen as another round of intense rainfall arrives midweek, adding pressure to already saturated hillsides and low-lying neighborhoods.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA, the storm system is expected to continue through Thursday, bringing several more inches of rain to already saturated lowlands and significantly higher totals to the Cascades and Olympics. Forecasts indicate that wet, unsettled weather may persist into the end of the week, prolonging both flooding and landslide risks throughout the region.
North Bend
On Wednesday, December 10, Mayor Mary Miller issued a Proclamation of Emergency due to severe storms and river flooding affecting North Bend and King County. Many local rivers reached or exceeded Phase 4 flood gauges on December 9, and additional hazardous weather is expected through December 11.
The City of North Bend operates a Sandbag Center through its partnership with the King County Flood Control District. Residents concerned about localized flooding can pick up sandbags at the Public Works Department at 1155 E North Bend Way. To access the site, residents should enter through North Bend Way and check in at the Public Works Administration Building near the entrance.
Sandbag supplies are free, but residents must bring their own shovel and fill their own bags. The Sandbag Center was open overnight Monday, December 8, through Tuesday, December 9, and beginning Wednesday, December 10, it remains open on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The City of North Bend Emergency Operations Center remains open. For non-emergency needs or to report unmarked flooded roads, residents can contact the EOC by phone at (425) 888-7688 or (425) 888-7646, or by email at EM@northbendwa.gov. For life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1.
City Hall at 920 SE Cedar Falls Way is closed to the public at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10. The Sandbag Center remains open at 1155 E North Bend Way for those who need sandbags to protect their homes or businesses.
Snoqualmie
Mayor Ross has declared a State of Emergency as an intense atmospheric river brings severe flooding to the Snoqualmie Valley. According to NOAA, the Snoqualmie River near Snoqualmie Falls is experiencing near-record flooding corresponding to a Phase 4 flood within the King County flood warning system. The river is approaching major flood stage and is forecast to crest at approximately 10 p.m. tonight.
To support the community response, the City of Snoqualmie is activating its Emergency Operations Center at 3 p.m. This activation will provide enhanced coordination among city departments, regional partners, and emergency services.
Officials urge residents to avoid floodwaters, obey all detours and closure signs, and never drive through flooded roads. As little as one foot of water can cause a driver to lose control, and two feet can carry most vehicles away. “The safety of our residents is our highest priority. We are closely monitoring this evolving situation and will request additional resources as needed,” said Mayor Ross.
Residents should continue to monitor official communication channels for updates and safety instructions. For updates, the city directs residents to follow the City of Snoqualmie’s website, social media pages, and regional emergency alert systems.
A self-serve sandbag station is available at 38190 SE Millpond Road and is open 24 hours a day for residents who bring their own shovel.
Road Closures Across the Snoqualmie Valley
Drivers across the Snoqualmie Valley should expect evolving road conditions as flooding, debris, and standing water continue to impact travel. Conditions are changing quickly, and additional closures may occur with little notice. Residents are encouraged to use official transportation channels for the most up-to-date information during the storm.
- For unincorporated King County roads, updates are available on the MyCommute website.
- For state route impacts, travelers can check the WSDOT travel map, the WSDOT mobile app, or sign up for email updates.
- City-specific road information can be found on each jurisdiction’s transportation or public works pages.
Safety Guidance
Flood conditions can change quickly, and officials urge residents to use caution throughout the storm. Never enter floodwaters, since it is impossible to judge the depth or the stability of the ground beneath the water. Do not drive through flooded roads.
As little as one foot of water can cause a driver to lose control of a vehicle, and two feet of water can carry most vehicles away. Obey all detour signs and road closure barriers, and do not drive around barricades. Residents are encouraged to plan extra travel time, stay alert, and avoid driving during periods of heavy rainfall whenever possible.
Regional agencies also recommend checking official communication channels frequently for updated information, weather statements, and emergency notifications.
This story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available from local, county, and state agencies. As conditions shift, jurisdictions may issue new advisories, adjust response operations, or report additional impacts to roads, river levels, and public facilities. Check back throughout the week for the latest details as the storm progresses and officials release further guidance for residents across the Snoqualmie Valley.
