Whatcom and Skagit counties are facing school and road closures due to severe flooding from last week. Heavy rain, with up to 3 inches expected through Tuesday evening, has made conditions difficult.
In Sumas, State Route 9 is closed between Morgan Road and the Canadian border. The Sumas border crossing remains shut, and State Route 542, also known as the Mount Baker Highway, is closed at milepost 35 because of landslides.
Whatcom County reports several other closures, including parts of Hannegan Road and Marine Drive. You can check for updates on road status here.
In Skagit County, State Route 20 reopened this morning but remains closed near Bacon Creek Road. Other closures include State Route 530 and South Skagit Highway. More information on Skagit roads can be found here.
As for schools, Nooksack Valley School District has announced a closure today due to the extensive flooding in the area. Superintendent Matt Galley emphasized support for families during this time. Classes may resume on Tuesday, with absences related to flooding being excused.
Geneva Elementary School is closed too, but for a different reason—a significant power outage.
Concrete School District initially planned a delay but later canceled classes for Monday and Tuesday due to unstable ground and high winds. Burlington-Edison and Sedro-Woolley School Districts will have two-hour late starts, but bus routes may be disrupted.
This flooding situation highlights the vulnerability of local communities to severe weather. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), extreme weather events are becoming more common due to climate change. The trend shows that such heavy rainfall is likely to continue, raising concerns about the infrastructure’s ability to handle these events.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some residents expressing frustration over road conditions while others share support for affected families. The community’s response showcases resilience and solidarity during challenging times.
For further updates on weather patterns and safety tips, you can check resources like the NOAA or local news outlets.
