Worst flooding in years closes King County roads

King County road crews continue to respond tonight to what may be one of the worst floods in years – a flood that has already impacted more than 35 roads countywide.  And the worst may not be over.  The rain continues to fall in many parts of the county.  By tomorrow morning, swollen rivers and mudslides may boost the number of road closures even higher, dramatically reducing access in many King County neighborhoods.

The hardest hit area is East King County. The Snoqualmie Valley continues to reel from major flooding along the Snoqualmie River.  Currently only one road – Woodinville-Duvall Road -- is providing access to areas such as Duvall and Carnation.  By morning, that road may also be impassable.

Given the severity of the flooding, King County road crews will remain on the job throughout the night monitoring road conditions in flood prone areas and posting closures, as necessary.  As the lower Snoqualmie River continues to rise, additional closures should be expected as those higher flows move downstream.  Residents traveling to work tomorrow should check the latest weather and traffic reports before heading out.  It’s possible some travel routes will simply be cut off due to the magnitude of the flooding.

The snow melt that has occurred at lower elevations may also prolong road-related impacts. In addition to river flooding, heavy rain and saturated soils have caused mudslides and road washouts.  These impacts will  keep many roads closed for some time.  Repairs will likely be costly  It may be several days before the Road Services Division can assess the full damage caused by this fierce storm.  
 
The county is again reminding motorists of the dangers associated with driving through deep standing water or around barricades and road closure signs, which is the leading cause of flood-related deaths.  Residents should also closely monitor the latest road updates at www.kingcounty.gov/roadalert.

Motorists who spot a problem on a road maintained by King County can also report it by calling 206-296-8100 or 1-800-KC ROADS.  Staff at the King County Flood Warning Center will also continue to monitor river gauges and provide updates to residents in flood prone areas.  Residents can call the center's recorded information hotline at 206-296-8200.