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Evacuation Ordered for Seattle Area After Levee Breach Triggers Flash Flood Warning
SEATTLE, WA – A flash flood warning and an immediate evacuation notice have been issued for parts of the Seattle metropolitan area following a levee breach in Tukwila, impacting over 45,000 residents and businesses.
The National Weather Service (NWS) Seattle office issued the urgent warning on Monday, effective through Monday night, due to the breach of the Desimone levee on the Green River. The NWS emphasized the perilous conditions, stating, “Conditions are dangerous and access routes may be lost at any time. Go north or south of evacuated area away from flooding waters.”
The evacuation order specifically targets residents and businesses located east of the Green River in the Orillia area, encompassing portions of Tukwila, Renton, and Kent. Those in the affected zones have been instructed to leave immediately.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay addressed the unfolding crisis at a press briefing, describing it as “a very serious and emerging situation.” He confirmed that the levee breach occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time on Monday and that repairs are currently underway.
Zahilay further warned that “conditions remain dynamic as rain returns and water levels continue to rise and change in unpredictable ways.” He urged residents to prioritize safety by adhering to instructions from experts, responders, and law enforcement.
In response to the escalating situation, the Washington National Guard announced that its members are en route to King County to provide support.
This incident follows a period of intense rainfall in the Pacific Northwest, with several atmospheric rivers dumping over 15 inches of rain in some areas last week, leading to historic river flooding and submerged neighborhoods. The Green River had already experienced flooding due to these recent weather events.
More rounds of rain are anticipated throughout the week, with flood watches remaining in effect for various parts of the Pacific Northwest, further exacerbating concerns for potential flooding.