Flood season is here, and government agencies from local, state and federal continue to prepare for the flood that could come from the damage to the Green River Valley and the Howard Hanson Dam. Flood risk is at an all time high, and these efforts to fix the stuctural damage, personal safety and economic impact, especially at the local level, should be applauded. Yet a lot more needs to be done to make sure the people living in the Green River Valley and our region will be spared the awful destruction of a floood.
Much of the population along the heavily developed river are at risk for flooding this Winter because of damage to the Howard Hanson Dam. The Army Corps of Engineers says the dam cannot be trusted to provide even half of the flood protection it normally provides.
Financially devastating flooding could occur in some areas of King County, especially the Green River Valley, this winter. All property types including businesses, Homes, and farms in Kent, Auburn, Tukwila, and Renton are at risk. People living in these areas should get ready for this winter's flooding season.
Buy flood insurance immediately because it takes 30 days for a policy to become active. Warning - homeowner's policy do not cover flood damage, check you policy but is usually extra. To double check contact your insurance agent or use the link below. Check area news broadcast for information if severe weather is anticipated.
Check local road conditions and never cross a closed street.
Obtain an AM radio or NOAA weather radio with extra batteries in case the power fails for important news any time day and night.
Have medications on hand in case pharmacy access is delayed.
Receive alerts and updates during emergency flood events by using RPIN.org. Have an emergency flood plan and put together an emergency flood kit.
Be prepared to move animals and livestock to higher ground.
Move valuables and electronics to higher ground—on the second story or in your attic.
Place chemicals higher than the flood level might be. If in doubt recycle chemical or get rid of them at collection facilities, or at the Wastemobile. Some small businesses in King County might be eligible to use household disposal facilities.
Become aware of alerts that explain evacuation routes or find the latest evacuation route information on the internet.
Repair leaky underground storage tanks so chemicals are not spread during flooding.
Become familiar with sandbags and find where you can buy or get them ahead of time to battle the flood waters.
Make sure storm drains are free of leaves and other debris.
Keep your insurance agent's number on hand Know how to protect yourself if sewage overflows into homes and businesses because of flooding.
Protect vehicles and equipment by moving them to high ground before they submerged in flood waters.
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Flood Insurance 411 is the ultimate guide for people living in the Green River Valley, mainly Kent, Auburn, Tukwila, Renton, and Seattle. For more information about flood insurance please visit http://www.floodinsurance-411.com.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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