Photo shows cars recently submerged in flood prone areas of King County. Photo Credit: KC Flood Management Department.
Written by Mohamud Yussuf
Natural disasters affect people differently, with some having a harder time recovering, or perhaps not recovering at all. Flooding, which is one of those disasters, happens anywhere it rains. Building flood resilience means that we are increasing the ability for people and communities to recover quickly from whatever impacts flooding brings to our doorsteps. Flooding will never disappear in King County, but being prepared can reduce the risks for communities, families, and individuals.
The population has grown, and we have added more homes and businesses to the landscape. Rivers and streams are alive—they change overtime. Now, we have to think about how we develop land, manage waste, accommodate traffic, grow food, and recreate the effects of our rivers and coastal areas.
How will this flood plan be different?
To create a flood resilient future, King County’s flood plan must represent the diverse perspectives of our community. Due to a variety of factors, including unjust historical practices, some communities are more at risk of flooding. Some people are less able to prepare or recover from flood disasters. Understanding what all communities need and their proposed solutions is a King County priority.
Over the next two years King County will update its Flood Management Plan. The flood plan is our guide for managing flood risks along our rivers, creeks, and coastlines. How does reducing flood risks impact rivers that support wildlife and farming? Ensure safe roads and reliable infrastructure? How do we address the likelihood of bigger floods with the resources available? What matters most to you?
You’re invited to a Flood Planning Community Workshop. Join us to learn about local flood risks and free or low-cost resources for flood preparedness. You’ll also be able to share your ideas to shape how the county manages flood risks.
Register to Join this Month’s King County Flood Planning Community Workshop
King County Flood Management Plan is hosting a workshop for community members to join the conversation on flooding and help shape how King County manages future flood risks. Register today and join:
Tuesday, June 27 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for an online meeting
At this interactive workshop, you will have the opportunity to learn about local flood risks and free or low-cost resources for family and community preparedness. You can also share ideas to shape how the county manages flood risks for people, homes, and businesses in unincorporated areas. King County will also provide an update on progress being made to develop the next King County Flood Management Plan. The workshop will offer interpretation and translation in Spanish and Somali. Interpretation and translation services are available to you at no cost. To request other language interpretation or accommodations for people with disabilities, select those options when you register or call Chrys Bertolotto at 206-263-2677, (TTY) Relay: 711, at least five days before the meeting.
More ways to shape the next flood plan.
Can’t join the workshop? The county is still interested in hearing from you. Share your flooding concerns and ideas for what services would help community members be more resilient to flooding in a 10-minute online Survey, or find King County at an upcoming community event near you.
If you have questions about the flood plan or have specific ideas or suggestions to share, contact Chrys Bertolotto, Flood Plan Engagement Coordinator, at cbertolotto@kingcounty.gov or call 206-263-2677. Or visit 2024 King County Flood Management Plan kingcounty.gov/floodplan
