EVERETT – People who plan for disasters in Snohomish County are bracing for a rainstorm that could be large enough to cause flooding and evacuations from homes in the river basins.
The storm is forecasted to pour 6 inches or more of rain over the North Cascade foothills tonight and Monday. Flood watches were issued Saturday for most of northwest Washington.
Runoff into the Sauk and Stillaguamish rivers could lead to flooding in Darrington, Granite Falls, Stanwood and Silvana, said Chris Badger, emergency planner for the county Department of Emergency Management.
By Wednesday, continued rain and runoff into the Skykomish and Snohomish rivers could cause further flooding in Sultan and Snohomish, Badger said.
“This looks like the real thing here,” National Weather Service forecaster Andy Haner said. “It looks like what could be a really big event for some river basins.”
The county’s Emergency Operations Center is on standby and will be ready if flooding occurs, Badger said. Flood planners were scheduled to meet early today to go over the county’s response plan.
People should leave their homes if told to evacuate, Badger said. The only two local deaths during floods over the past 15 years were people who ignored signs and attempted to drive onto flooded roads.
The last significant flooding in Snohomish County happened in fall 2003. Heavy rains sent the Snohomish, Stillaguamish and Sauk rivers over their banks, causing nearly $5 million damage.
It’s difficult to predict the severity of floods until they happen. Every inch of rain can make a big difference, Badger said.
“It just depends on whether we get that 6 inches all at once,” she said.
If there is flooding, road closures will be posted on the county’s Web site. The Web site can also be used to check real-time river level gauges.
Members of the Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers have toured the county’s flooding hot spots during the past two weeks. The county’s levy system appears to be in good condition, Badger said.
Although rain over the past few days could contribute to flooding, the risk of landslides remains low. There hasn’t been enough prolonged rain for the ground to become saturated with water, Badger said.
More showers are expected throughout the week. Another rainstorm could move through northwest Washington next weekend, Haner said.
People are urged to make sure the storm drains near their homes are clear of leaves and other debris. Clear drains will help prevent roads from flooding, Badger said.
People should turn off gas, water and electricity to their homes if they’re forced to evacuate. They should wear warm, waterproof clothing and bring a phone, radio and flashlight with them, Badger said.
Reporter Scott Pesznecker: 425-339-3436 or spesznecker@heraldnet.com.
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