After weeks of record snowfall and freezing weather, Snohomish County residents found themselves facing the new threats of drenching rains, flooding and mudslides in early January.

Approximately 40 roads throughout the county, some of them major arterials, were closed due to high water January 8 and 9, forcing drivers to explore alternate routes or simply stay off the streets. Remaining at home wasn't an option for some residents who were urged to evacuate due to rising flood waters.

While the county's Department of Emergency Management didn't order any mandatory evacuations, staffers made nearly 10,000 calls informing citizens of rising water in specific neighborhoods.

Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon declared a state of emergency due to flooding Wednesday night, January 7. According to the National Weather Service, rain was falling at a rate of one-half inch per hour in several areas of Snohomish County Wednesday evening, increasing the risk of urban flooding.

According to county spokesman Christopher Schwarzen, the county's Public Works Department delivered 250 cubic yards of sand and about 14,000 sandbags to locations including Darrington, Stanwood, Oso, Arlington, Snohomish and Monroe.

The Snohomish River was expected to crest at 33 feet around 10 p.m. January 8, with the Stillaguamish River topping out at 22 feet.

A breach on an Ebey Island dike caused major flooding surrounding Highway 2, and residents were urged to evacuate while the barrier was repaired.

Forecasters were calling for a temporary end to the rain Monday, January 12, although warm temperatures could continue to cause problems with increased snow melt and runoff entering saturated lowland areas.

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