The current closure stretches 49 miles.

SKYKOMISH, Wash. — A portion of Highway 2 between Skykomish and Leavenworth will be closed for “months,” according to Gov. Bob Ferguson. 

The closure is approximately 49 miles, according to state Secretary of Transportation Julie Meredith. There are areas where the road is completely washed out and the highway will have to be rebuilt, she said.

At Milepost 54, a bridge is covered in several feet of debris. 

There is an active slide area near Tumwater Canyon with erosion occurring.

“It’s premature to estimate exactly how long that closure will be, but that is obviously a major highway, and we understand the implications to business, individuals and human lives of not having that highway available for an extended period of time,” Ferguson said. “We’re going to do everything we possibly can to repair it as quickly as possible, but it’s literally underwater at some stages – there are major major issues on that highway”

Highway 2 initially closed Dec. 10 from Index to Coles Corner due to mud, water and debris covering the road in multiple locations. A day later, the highway reopened between Index and Skykomish, but remained closed over Stevens Pass to Leavenworth.

As crews assessed damage to the roadway caused by sustained rain from an atmospheric river, Leavenworth was hit hard by the storm. Widespread power outages were reported, forcing the town to temporarily suspend its winter festivities. The Village of Lights returned this week.

Business owners told KING 5 they are concerned about revenue, as December is their most profitable month of the year.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.