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Heavy rains and melting snow brought moderate-to-major flooding to Snohomish County rivers and streams this week. The Stillaguamish River on Dec. 5 reached a record 21.34 feet at Arlington, more than seven feet above flood stage. High water throughout the county led to numerous flooded roads and more than a dozen rescues. As rivers return to their banks, the focus has started to transition from the flood fight toward recovery.
 Report flood damage now
Snohomish County Emergency Management has launched an online survey to gather information about damage to homes, businesses and farms in Snohomish County. The data will help emergency managers to better understand where problems are concentrated and to make the case for recovery resources, including possible assistance and future mitigation projects. Direct link to the survey: https://arcg.is/0XTr1n0
Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers on Dec. 7 issued an emergency proclamation for flooding impacts. The proclamation allows the County to spend public funds to take reasonable and prudent measures to ensure the safety of residents and to expedite response.
“Many families, businesses, and communities have been impacted by the floods this week and more rain continues to fall,” Executive Somers said in a press release. “Therefore, I’ve declared an emergency to ensure we have every tool available to us. For cities and other agencies who have responded to the flooding, please know that we will be there to assist in any way we can. We’ll get through this together."
The widespread flooding has caused dangerous road conditions which impact emergency response, including potential delayed response due to impassable roads and additional resource needs for water rescue.
"Our partners across the county have had a busy few days, with over a dozen water rescues so far and roads and utilities crews working around the clock,” said Lucia Schmit, director of the Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management. “This declaration will help get those agencies the resources they need to continue to keep our residents safe.”
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Even after flood waters recede, the impacts of flooding continue. For property owners affected by flooding who are returning to their homes or businesses, there are many considerations for protecting their health and safety, as well as the environment.
The Snohomish County Health Department offers comprehensive guidance on Cleaning up After a Flood. It is among the resources offered on the department’s weather page. Information also is being shared via the Health Department’s social media channels.
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Considerations immediately upon returning home after a flood include the safety of the building you are entering, visibility and lighting, making sure electrical power and natural gas or propane are turned off until they can be assessed for safety, and ensuring a safe supply of drinking water. Drink bottled, treated, or boiled water – boil for a full minute before using.
After immediate concerns are taken care of, there are other clean-up needs. These can be challenging but cleaning up safely and thoroughly is important because flood waters are contaminated and can make people sick.
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Septic tanks need to be checked, pumped, and damaged or corroded systems need to be repaired or replaced. There are resources and information at www.savvyseptic.org. Flood-damaged foods, medicines and cosmetics, as well as perishables that have been out of refrigeration for four hours or longer, should be thrown out. Food businesses can contact the Health Department’s food safety team at 425-339-5250 for guidance if they were impacted by flooding.
Surfaces and belongings in the flood area should be thoroughly cleaned, and people need to wash their hands with soap and water often whenever interacting with flooded areas or items that have been submerged. Longer term, keep an eye (and nose) out for signs of mold, which is more likely after flooding. If you see or smell mold, start cleaning immediately.
Keep current on flood risks
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