Saturday saw tragedy struck the state of Washington. A mudslide destroyed part of a community and highway and has lead to the death and injury of some. Also, according to reports some people are reported missing and rescuers continue to proceed with caution due to the instability of the ground.

Around 11 a.m. on Saturday a wall of mud and debris crashed down unto the town of Oso in Washington's Snohomish County. The mudslide destroyed a confirmed six homes and has blocked both part of Highway 530 and the Stillaguamish River, according to the Seattle Times.

The mudslide has killed three people, according to officials, and has prompted officials to evacuate residents near the affected area. According to the Seattle Times, the debris and mud on the river is hindering the flow of water and may cause flooding. Saturday night, water was rising about 10 to 12 inches every 30 minutes, said John Pennington, emergency-management director for the county, to the Times.

The landslide was caused by groundwater saturation due to the recent heavy rainfall, according to CNN. Snohomish County Fire District 21 Chief Travis Hots confirmed that 18 people are unaccounted for and that seven have been taken to the hospital. Yet, Hots told reporters that the focus on Sunday was to ensure the safety of emergency responders as the area was still unstable. It is reported that rescuers were drudging in 15 feet of mud in search of survivors.

"Every human endeavor ... is being explored here to rescue and find their loved ones," said Washington governor Jay Inslee to reporters. He had arrived in the area Sunday night and spoke with reporters about the possibility of help coming from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Officials have also warned residents to stay clear of bridges and trestles. They fear that the water from the river may rise and overcome the structures.