News Flash

Island County Emergency Management is sharing information about what you can do to prepare for Coastal Flooding because of the potential for another round of King Tides expected to occur between January 22 and 24. 

A combination of exceptionally high tides (also known as king tides), low barometric pressure, and heavy rains brought significant flooding to Island County in December 2022. Unfortunately, many of our residents sustained substantial damage to their property and possessions due to the tidal flooding. However, there are things that you can do to prepare for potential flooding.

Stay Informed

• Monitor weather information sites. One that provides tide predictions is NOAA Tides and Currents.
• Sign up for alerts from the Island County Emergency Notification System. In addition, you can sign up to receive weather alerts. 
• Sign up for the MyAlerts app on your smartphone for notifications. 
• Monitor or Follow the Island County Emergency Management on Facebook or NextDoor.

Protect Your Home

Mitigate flood damage with some retrofitting projects, including elevation, barrier systems, wet floodproofing, and dry floodproofing. Details are available on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website. 

Some steps you can take now include:

• Anchor outdoor fuel tanks. Unanchored fuel tanks may move with floodwaters and cause severe and extensive damage.
• Ensure any drainage is clear and water can flow away from your property. Clear as much loose debris away from the home to prevent further damage.
• Move any valuables well above the flood stage or to a safer location. Ensure you have good documentation and photos of your possessions for insurance claims.
• Install sump pumps to draw water away from your home. Ensure they have a battery backup in case of power failure. Activate any other flood protection devices.
• Ensure your septic system is in good order before expected heavy rains and flooding. If needed, have a qualified technician look at it for recommendations on avoiding problems.
• Elevate major appliances on concrete blocks, if possible, to avoid damage.
• Utilize temporary flood barriers, such as sandbags, flood skirts, or inflatable flood walls. Many local and online retailers sell sandbags and other obstacles. Some local options include Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware, Amazon, and Uline.

More Preparedness Tips

• Move your vehicle to high ground before the king tide event.
• Review your flood insurance policy or consider getting one.
• Make a flood safety plan.
• Identify evacuation routes.

If you find yourself in danger, please call 9-1-1. 

More information is available on the island County Emergency Management website Flood page.