Flooding in King County: What to Know and Where to Get Help

Dear friends and neighbors, 

As communities across Washington continue to experience extreme weather, flooding, and travel disruptions, I want to share the most up-to-date and reliable information related to the ongoing flood event. 

This update includes critical information from county flood control districts, emergency management partners, and state agencies. The information below is current as of 3:45 p.m. today, and conditions may change quickly. I encourage everyone to continue monitoring official state and local sources for real-time updates. 

CURRENT WEATHER AND FLOODING 

King County continues to experience heavy rainfall and saturated ground conditions following multiple atmospheric river storms. Rivers and streams remain elevated, and additional rainfall and wind in the coming days may increase the risk of flooding and landslides, particularly in low-lying and river-adjacent areas. 

The King County Flood Warning Center is actively monitoring multiple rivers at elevated flood phases. Some rivers are forecasted to crest again, though at lower levels than last week’s peak. 

Residents can monitor real-time river levels, forecasts, and flood status updates through the King County Flood Warning Center and county emergency management resources. 

STAY INFORMED 

Timely information can be critical during flood events. King County emergency management officials encourage residents to: 

• Sign up for King County ALERT to receive important safety information by text or email at kingcounty.gov/alert. 
• Call the King County Flood Warning Center for river and flood status updates 206-296-8200 or 800-945-9263. 
• Access recovery and insurance guidance through the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. 

ROAD AND HIGHWAY IMPACTS 

Travel conditions remain hazardous across King County, and road closures may change quickly. Residents are encouraged to avoid non-essential travel and check real-time information before heading out. 

For the most up-to-date conditions, consult official transportation sources: 

• King County MyCommute 
• WSDOT Real-Time Travel Map 
• Mountain pass and highway condition reports 

Flooding, erosion, and debris impacts continue to affect highways and local roads in multiple areas, with crews actively assessing damage and making repairs where conditions allow.  

SANDBAG AND VOLUNTEER RESOURCES 

Residents seeking sandbags or volunteer opportunities can find the latest locations, hours, and instructions through King County emergency management and public works resources: 

• King County Sandbag Distribution and Use 

EMERGENCY ALERTS AND COUNTY RESOURCES 

• King County Flood Alerts 
• King County Office of Emergency Management updates 
• County emergency management social media channels 

ADDITIONAL SAFETY RESOURCES 

• American Red Cross Flood Safety Tips 
• National Weather Service – Hazards & Forecasts 
• National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center 
• National Weather Service Water Prediction Center 

Flood-related guidance for farmers and agricultural producers is also available through the King Conservation District. 

EMERGENCY CONTACTS 

• Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies. 
• Text “SHELTER” to 4FEMA (43362) for emergency shelter information. 

SAFETY REMINDERS 

• If possible, avoid travel, as conditions can change rapidly. 
• Stay off flooded or debris-covered roads. 
• Prepare for localized power outages and blocked roadways. 
• Check on neighbors, especially older adults or people with mobility challenges. 

My office will continue to monitor conditions closely and share updates as they become available. Please stay safe, stay informed, and do not hesitate to contact my office if you need help navigating available resources. 

Warm regards, 

Sen. Claudia Kauffman