EVERETT — Snohomish County is hosting an open house focusing on climate resilience and preparedness 5:30-7:30 p.m. July 30 at Mariner High School, 200 120th St SW.
Residents will have the opportunity to provide the county with input on its developing Communitywide Climate Resiliency Plan. A draft is scheduled to be released this fall.
“The Communitywide Climate Resiliency Plan is Snohomish County’s road map to strengthen local communities, businesses, ecosystems, and infrastructure against the growing threats of hotter, drier summers, rising sea levels, flood events, intense storms, and wildfire smoke,” said Molly Beeman, manager of the county’s Office of Energy and Sustainability, in an email Tuesday. “Climate change is already impacting our county, and community voices are essential to building a plan that meets our shared needs.”
Interactive educational stations and activities will be set up during the open house for people to learn about climate trends and vulnerabilities in the region.
By 2100, sea levels in the Puget Sound region are projected to rise 1.5 to 2.5 feet, according to research published by the state Department of Ecology. Flooding risks, a major concern in Snohomish County, will also rise with more precipitation coming as rain instead of snow. By 2100, the state expects to see 22% more precipitation, with two-year river flood events bringing 15% more water.
Spanish interpretation will be available, and additional language services can be requested before July 21 by emailing climate@snoco.org. For people unable to make the in-person event, feedback can be submitted online at snohomishcountywa.gov/6604/Communitywide-Climate-Resiliency-Plan.
Eliza Aronson: 425-339-3434; eliza.aronson@heraldnet.com; X: @ElizaAronson.
Eliza’s stories are supported by the Herald’s Environmental and Climate Reporting Fund.
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