A catastrophic flood hit the small city of Sumas, Washington on November 15, 2021. The residents have endured several floods over the years, including a recent flood in 2020 that flooded 50 homes and businesses. The November 2021 flood was deeper and faster than expected, causing a major loss to over 300 homes in the town, or about 80% of all homes. It was a historic flood, catching city authorities by surprise. At a moment’s notice, the rushing floodwaters went from threatening property to threatening lives. By the time, all roads to and from Sumas were underwater. A massive rescue effort was launched with no time to stop, think, or plan.

“The Waters Are Rising: Stories of Inspiration and Hope from the Sumas, Washington Flood of November 2021” is the inspirational tale of neighbors and strangers working together to save lives. Eyewitness testimonies describe families forced into attics, being rescued in the bucket of a tractor, and rescuers putting their own lives in danger. The quick response of farmers with tractors and rescue workers who came running without being asked is amazing. Days after the flood, volunteers descended on the city to begin the massive clean-up effort. A resource center sprang up as donations poured into Sumas bringing a measure of relief to residents. Every emotion imaginable is present in the stories of the rescue and clean-up effort.

The story of the 2021 Sumas flood is told through eyewitness testimonies, stories of hope and inspiration, words of encouragement, and photographs of the flooding water and rescue efforts. This book is not a technical work describing why the water was faster and deeper than expected, but rather it tells of the emotions and the amazing response of hundreds of people. Sumas was instantly filled with angels when the flood hit.

Appendices highlighting other major floods in Sumas from throughout the 1900s are included.

The book can be purchased on Amazon here.