levee Green River Flash Flood warning: Green River levee failure sparks Flash Flood warning in Tukwila, Renton, and Kent – urgent evacuations underway
Green River Levee Breach Triggers Flash Flood Warning: Puts Tukwila, Renton and Kent at Risk
The breach puts residents and businesses in Tukwila, Renton and Kent at risk. People in the Orillia area east of the Green River are under a Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation notice, and officials are urging evacuees to move north or south immediately, according to the report.
Emergency officials warn residents not to walk or drive through still or moving water and to comply with all barricades and road closures.
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King County, National Guard Responds to Green River Dam Breach
King County officials, supported by the Washington National Guard, are actively responding to the flooding. Governor Bob Ferguson noted that water was expected to move north toward Interstate 405, and King County issued its own evacuation orders in coordination with the NWS alert, according to the King 5 report.
Flooding in Tukwila Causes Multiple Road Closures
City officials reported that many roads were closed due to floods:
- State Route 167 closed for six miles
- Frager Road at W Meeker Street; Old Fishing Hole Park was also closed
- Russell Road at Veteran’s Drive; Van Doren’s Landing Park was also closed
- W Valley Highway/68th Ave S/Washington Ave S from Willis to S 277th Street
- S 262nd Street, 78th Avenue S to 27232 72nd Avenue S
- 78th Avenue S from S 277th Street to S 262nd Street
- S 277th Street, 108th Avenue SE to 83rd Avenue S/Auburn Way N
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Red Cross Urges Residents to Follow Washington Evacuation Map
Betsy Robertson of the Red Cross emphasized the importance of taking evacuation orders seriously and, as King 5 reported, urged people asked to evacuate to “be intentional” about following the instructions and “be smart” to avoid creating more problems. Robertson also noted that the geographical challenges posed by this flood event were “undeniable”.
FAQ
What caused the flash flood warning in Tukwila?
A levee breach on the Green River triggered the warning.
What areas are most at risk from Green River flooding?
Tukwila, Renton, Kent and the Orillia area east of the river are most at risk.
