King County flood patrol closely monitoring flows as rain-swollen rivers rising fast

King County dispatched a flood patrol crew Monday morning to better monitor conditions as heavy rain continues to push river flows higher on rivers throughout the region.

The Snoqualmie River is now at a Phase II flood alert level, with minor lowland flooding expected. Meanwhile, the Tolt River remains at the higher Phase III flood alert level, with moderate flooding expected along the river.

As of 10 a.m., the sum flow of the Snoqualmie’s three forks was 15,716 cubic feet per second (cfs); a Phase II flood alert is triggered on the Snoqualmie when flows reach 12,000 cfs. Minor lowland flooding could be expected at this level, including potential road closures.

Flows on the Tolt River also continue to rise. As of 10 a.m., the Tolt near the City of Carnation was flowing at 5,240 cfs, which is a Phase III flood alert level. At this flow, moderate flooding with increasing depths and higher velocities is expected in some neighborhoods.

Road closures could occur as a result of high flows. Motorists are advised to never drive through standing water or around barricades; this is how most lives are lost during flooding.

Residents in affected areas can get updated information on flooding on the King County Web site at http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/waterandland/flooding.aspx, or via RPIN, the area's regional Web site at http://www.rpin.org. A recorded flood-information hotline is also updated each hour for citizens wanting information in flood areas. The number is 206-296-8200 or 1-800-945-9263.

Citizens who need help interpreting flood information should call 206-296-4535 or 1-800-768-7932. Problems on county maintained roads can be reported by calling 206-296-8100 or 1-800-KC-ROADS.