Good morning, Pasco.

Pasco residents learned of a festive Christmas event that featured Buddy the Elf in Kennewick on Saturday, where families enjoyed holiday cheer + fun activities before the season’s official kickoff.

Van Giesen was closed between Terminal Drive and 38th Street on Dec.

13 due to rising Yakima River flooding – Richland Police advised drivers to steer clear of water-covered roads.

Arctic air from Canada has fueled severe flooding across Washington (triggering thousands of evacuations in Monroe) and officials warn of rising rivers and mudslide risks.

Emergency teams in the Tri-Cities are monitoring water levels as floodwaters slowly recede.

Flooding has eased in western Washington after heavy rains in recent days, and residents observed lower water levels in local neighborhoods.

Local officials (in Pasco) say cleanup efforts are ongoing to support recovery in affected areas.

Flu season is underway as CDC data shows a 3.2% increase in doctor visits for flu-like symptoms in the week ending Dec.

6; experts advise residents, especially older adults, to get the flu vaccine to counter the mutated H3N2 subclade K strain.