Torrential Rains Shut Down U.S. Highway 2 Near Leavenworth, Damage U.S. 12 in Naches

Heavy rainfall and flooding across Washington state have forced the closure of major routes and left transportation officials scrambling to assess widespread damage.

A significant stretch of U.S. Highway 2 between Skykomish and Leavenworth remains closed after days of relentless rain saturated slopes and triggered flooding, landslides, and debris flows. Multiple sections of the highway — including around Stevens Pass — are blocked by mud, rocks and fallen trees, and in some places entire segments of roadway have washed out. There is currently no estimated date for reopening, and no viable detour exists for cross-state traffic.

East of the Cascades, U.S. Highway 12 near Naches suffered severe erosion after the Naches River swelled beyond its banks. More than 300 feet of guardrail and pavement were swept away as floodwaters undermined the roadbed, prompting officials to shut the highway and the adjacent Yakima Greenway Trail on Dec. 10 as a precaution.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has launched emergency repair work on US 12. Contractor crews are constructing a river buttress, rebuilding the damaged embankment, and preparing to repave and install safety railings. Work is expected to continue seven days a week through early January 2026. During construction, the road and trail will remain closed, though a local detour is available.

The closures are part of broader travel disruptions following intense storms that brought record rainfall and saturated rivers across western and central Washington. Across the region, other state highways, local roads, and bridges have been impacted by flooding or landslides, urging motorists to exercise caution and stay updated with real-time travel information from WSDOT.