HIBAPRESS
Heavy rains have caused massive floods in the US state of Washington, prompting evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents.
Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson urged residents in threatened areas on Thursday to evacuate and follow the instructions of local authorities. It is believed that up to 100,000 residents have been affected by the evacuation orders.
Ferguson said in a post on the X platform: "I understand that many in our state have experienced major flooding in the past."
He added, "However, we are facing a historic situation, where we expect a rise of two feet [61 cm] above the standard flood level."
Ferguson continued that more than 30 major highways were closed to traffic. The governor also declared a state of emergency at the state level to quickly mobilize additional funds and staff.
The National Guard was deployed to assist in rescue operations in flood-affected areas. Helicopters and boats were used to transport residents to safety.
Dozens of rivers overflowed their banks, inundating towns and agricultural lands.
