Deputy chief warns of historic flooding; evacuations reported near Monroe

Michael McConnell, who identified himself as the deputy chief of Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue, addressed the Benoit City Council during public comment on Dec. 9 to report on flood response and regional rescues.

McConnell said the agency has deployed additional water‑rescue and swift‑water teams to Monroe and nearby areas and that the county emergency operations center is fully staffed and monitoring forecast models. “We are anticipating additional rains to move through and that what has been anticipated as record high flooding for the Snohomish River and some of the other areas will actually potentially continue to increase,” he said.

He told the council that rescues had occurred up the valley, in Gold Bar, and further downriver into Snohomish. McConnell said 3 Rivers Mobile Home Park, just downriver from the city of Monroe, had been evacuated and that Eby Island was being evacuated due to high flood risk. He also said Snohomish County had offered sheltering for animals at the fairgrounds and that the county had coordinated outreach to people who are unhoused or under‑housed in high‑risk areas.

McConnell said he would provide a written summary and follow‑up materials to the council and emergency‑management staff. He urged continued coordination among regional partners as forecasts evolve.

The council did not take any formal action during public comment but thanked McConnell for the update and noted staff would be in contact for follow‑up.