On December 27, 2025, Western Washington faced devastating flooding, a catastrophe that mirrored a significant disaster from 1975. According to the Associated Press, the current flooding has displaced thousands of residents and resulted in extensive damage, reviving memories of the original crisis that affected the region fifty years prior.
The floods of 1975 forced approximately 2,000 people from their homes, caused the death of thousands of farm animals, and inflicted an estimated $37 million in damages. This year’s flooding has raised concerns about similar impacts, as local officials scramble to provide relief to affected communities.
In addition to the flooding, the top stories in Washington from 1975 included a major scandal that led to the resignation of State Senator August Mardesich as majority leader, and the arrest of Ted Bundy in Salt Lake City. Bundy was suspected in a series of murders and disappearances in Washington, which shocked the nation. Another prominent case from that year was the conviction of Ricky Anthony Young, who was found guilty of the pipe-bomb murder of a Pasco judge.
Historical Context of Spokane’s Political Turmoil
Further back in history, on the same day in 1925, Spokane was embroiled in political controversy. Four of the five city commissioners were unwilling to support their colleague, Commissioner Charles Hedger, who faced a recall petition. Hedger was accused of permitting illegal activities such as liquor sales, prostitution, and gambling to flourish in the city. The remaining commissioners stated that they had previously warned Hedger about the issues and believed he should bear the full responsibility for the failures within the public safety department.
On December 27, significant historical events also occurred globally. In 1934, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi announced that Persia would now be known as Iran. Additionally, in 1978, Spain transitioned to a democracy after 40 years of dictatorship, with King Juan Carlos ratifying the country’s first democratic constitution.
As Western Washington navigates the challenges posed by this year’s flooding, the echoes of past disasters and political turmoil remind us of the region’s resilience and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
