Standing Together During High Water

Washington is experiencing record rainfall, and we know that some of our members are directly impacted by flooding, rising rivers, and rapidly changing conditions. We encourage everyone to prioritize safety — especially during this period of high water.
The Mountaineers The Mountaineers
December 12, 2025
Standing Together During High Water
Photo by Ginger Sarver.

Washington is experiencing record rainfall, and we know that some of our members are directly impacted by flooding, rising rivers, and rapidly changing conditions. To those of you navigating this right now: we’re thinking of you, and we’re holding you and your communities in our hearts.

It's important to be mindful that WSDOT, emergency responders, and many residents across the PNW are stretched thin and focused on protecting lives, homes, and infrastructure. Please consider these factors when making decisions about planned Mountaineers programs, practice risk management, and demonstrate empathy for members of our community who are being impacted.

As an outdoor community grounded in leadership, preparedness, and mutual care, we encourage everyone to prioritize safety — especially during periods of high water. Adjust plans, avoid flooded areas and swift water, and follow local guidance and closures. Making conservative decisions is an important form of leadership, both for ourselves and those we care about.

If you're able, please check in on fellow members, neighbors, trip partners, and friends — especially those in flood-prone areas. Community is one of our greatest strengths.

Looking ahead, we know there will be work to do. Heavy rain and flooding reshape landscapes, wash out roads and trails, and change how and where we can safely recreate. Recovery will take time, patience, and collaboration. As conditions stabilize, we will approach the months ahead with the same values that guide us outdoors: stewardship, humility, and a deep respect for the power of natural systems.

Help our community stay informed

If you’re comfortable sharing, we invite you to leave a comment below about what you’re seeing in your area and what resources are helping you stay informed. These shared observations keep us connected and supportive of one another as we navigate both immediate impacts and longer-term changes.

Thank you for taking care of yourselves and each other. Stay safe, stay grounded, and know that our community is thinking of you.


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Paul Brown
Paul Brown says:
Dec 13, 2025 05:26 PM

I'm finding information from WSDOT posts and from community-level Facebook groups (e.g., Greenwater, Crystal Mountain, Stevens Pass, Chinook-Nile, TAY, climbing-oriented groups).