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Central Puget Sound is famous for its plentiful streams, rivers, lakes, melting snow from the Cascade Mountains , and, of course, frequent rain.
Unfortunately, heavy persistent rainfall during the fall and winter months—or extremely heavy rain over a short period of time—can create dangerous flooding.
Be Prepared. Know the Risks.
Residents should know the particular flooding risks of their homes and communities. Contact your local American Red Cross, emergency management office, planning and zoning department or King County Department of Development and Environmental Services at 206-296-6640 to find out whether your community is flood prone.
If you live in a flood-prone area, be sure to purchase a flood insurance policy long before a threat of flooding occurs. Homeowners' insurance does not cover flood loss, but most homeowners' insurance agents also sell flood insurance. Anyone can get flood insurance, even if you are located in an area not mapped as a floodplain, or even if you have never been flooded before. Learn more about flood insurance at FloodSmart.gov .
Visit these additional links to find out if your property is prone to flooding:
- iMAP (high speed Internet connection required)
View and print custom online maps using King County data including parcels, floodway and floodplain boundaries.
- FEMA Flood Hazard Maps
Information on locating Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), understanding how to read them, and requesting a map change.
Develop and Share a Flood Plan for your Family and Business
The King County Flood Warning Center recommends the following steps before a flood strikes:
Update flood procedures for your family, farm or business (every year):
- Make sure everyone knows the emergency phone numbers, and when to call them.
- Learn the safest route from your home or business to high ground.
- Make arrangements for housing in the event you need to evacuate your home.
- Establish meeting places and phone numbers in case family members are separated by rising floodwaters.
- Teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water lines.
- Talk to neighbors and share information on preparedness and previous experiences. Remember, the next flood may be bigger than floods you or they have seen before.
- Buy sand and sandbags ahead of time. Learn how to use sandbags from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
What to do When Flood Watches or Warnings are Issued
The American Red Cross recommends the following actions:
When a Flood WATCH is issued...
- Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
- Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.
When a Flood WARNING is issued...
- Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.
When a Flash Flood WATCH is issued...
- Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.
Other Helpful Flooding Resources
From the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Additional flood-related links:
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