Evacuations have been ordered in three Seattle suburbs as a result of a levee failure amid historic flooding across the Pacific Northwest. The Desimone Levee along the Green River in Tukwila, Wash., was breached, prompting a flash flood warning on December 15. The National Weather Service’s office in Seattle shared posts alerting residents to the situation. A “GO NOW” evacuation notice was issued for King County, with residents and businesses east of the Green River in the Orillia area instructed to leave immediately by the King County Office of Emergency Management (OEM). The warning affected roughly 47,000 people in parts of Kent, Auburn, and Tukwila, according to the Associated Press.
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King County dispatch reported the Green River levee failure at 11:51 a.m. local time on Monday, followed by a warning of “life threatening” conditions near Tukwila by NWS Seattle. Residents were urged to move to higher ground promptly to ensure their safety. The Flash Flood Warning, in effect until 9 p.m. local time, cautioned of dangerous conditions with potential loss of access routes at any moment, as highlighted by the King County OEM bulletin. Responding to the emergency, the Washington National Guard dispatched members to King County to offer support in light of the flash flood warning.
The widespread flooding in Washington state has forced tens of thousands of people to evacuate their homes as the situation progresses. Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency on December 10, following a significant weather event that began on December 2. NBC News reported that as of Monday morning, over 250 Guard members were actively involved in flood response operations in Western WA, undertaking tasks such as sandbagging, traffic control, evacuations, and water rescues. Ferguson expressed his gratitude towards the National Guard for their efforts in ensuring the safety of Washington residents amidst the flood crisis.
The plight of the residents impacted by the flooding in Washington state has garnered attention and concern, with efforts underway to assist those affected by the natural disaster. Multiple instances of heartbreak and heroism have emerged from the historic floods, showcasing the resilience and compassion within the community facing these challenging circumstances. The flooding has triggered a sense of urgency and a need for vigilance in the region, with authorities and responders working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of the disaster and ensure the safety and well-being of all those affected.
As the situation unfolds, the collaborative response from local authorities, emergency services, and community members continues to be vital in addressing the challenges posed by the flooding crisis. The unity and support demonstrated in times of adversity underscore the strength of the community in facing and overcoming natural disasters. Efforts to provide assistance, shelter, and resources to those affected by the flooding remain ongoing, reflecting a shared commitment to aiding and uplifting individuals and families impacted by the calamity. The resilience and solidarity displayed in the face of the flooding serve as a testament to the spirit of endurance and unity prevailing in the Pacific Northwest region during these testing times.