Lewis County declares state of emergency as atmospheric river threatens flooding

Lewis County commissioners voted unanimously on Dec. 9 to declare a state of emergency after county emergency management briefed the board on an atmospheric river event that has produced rising rivers and road closures.

County Manager Ryan Barrett told the board that rivers rose overnight and that modeling indicates a second surge could equal or exceed yesterday’s peak, with the Cowlitz River approaching major flood thresholds. Barrett said public works, the sheriff’s office and emergency management are coordinating barricades, detours and shelter locations and that the county’s Emergency Operations Center will remain open.

Barrett said that if water levels continue to rise, the Cora Bridge on Highway 12 is likely to be closed, which would reduce access to parts of East Lewis County. He urged residents not to drive through standing water: “Turn around. Don’t drown.” Emergency staff and the sheriff’s office also asked residents to evacuate when directed and to share county social‑media safety messaging.

The board approved the emergency declaration as part of a package of deliberation items, voting 3-0 to carry the motion. County staff said the declaration is intended to improve the county’s ability to coordinate resources and access state support during the unfolding event. Annie Merritt, introduced by emergency management as the state liaison, will assist with WebEOC and logistical coordination during the response.

The declaration has no specified sunset in the hearing record; staff said they will continue to update closure maps and advisories on the Public Works website and will include links to the Washington State Department of Transportation highway‑closure information.