The photo: flooded houses in Vashon Islan 2021. Photo credit: Vashon Islan.
King County Flood Management Plan for Runta News
Natural disasters affect people differently, with some having a harder time recovering, or perhaps not recovering at all. Flooding, King County’s most common natural disaster, can happen anywhere it rains. Building flood resilience means that we are increasing the ability for people and communities to recover quickly and completely 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 coastal areas are dynamic—they change overtime. Now, we have to think about how we develop land, manage waste, accommodate traffic, grow food, and how that effects our rivers and coastal areas.
Flood risks are managed through the King County Flood Management Plan. Periodically updating the plan lets us plan for the future, together. King County is updating the flood plan right now and is seeking your input.
How does reducing flood risks impact wildlife and farming? Ensure safe roads and reliable infrastructure? How do we address the likelihood of bigger floods with the resources available? What are your priorities or specific ideas as we collectively manage flood risk in King County?
Join the conversation. Complete a survey to share specific ideas on how to build a flood resilient future, though October 1st. You can access it Information on this site is organized into five sections:
- Flooding and building flood resilience – background information on flooding as well as things you can do to reduce your own risk and get more prepared.
- Planning for flood resilience – introduction to the plan, the process for updating the plan, and why the plan matters
- survey questions to inform the scope and actions identified in the plan, now focused on strategies.
- – venues to chat with King County staff in person about flooding and share your local insights
- What we’ve heard from you – a record of the feedback King County has received so far.
King County also shares information about free and low-cost actions to protect your family and friends. At KingCounty.gov/prepareforflooding, you can learn about your flood risk, sign up for flood alerts or download the flood alert App, find out where to get sandbags for free and other helpful tips.
Our community input on the King County Flood Management Plan will shape programs, policies and infrastructure for years to come. Our local and community knowledge is valuable. Visit 2024 King County Flood Management Plan to share your opinions and ideas today
