Summary

After a lengthy fire season this fall, looming winter weather could create flash floods and debris flows on scarred land and residents should be ready for any potential hazards.

Story

King County Executive Dow Constantine urges all residents to be prepared for the hazards of winter weather, especially those in the vicinity of the Bolt Creek fire that burned an area now at greater risk for flash floods and debris flows.

After the fire season, the land scarred by the flames is weakened, leaving the area susceptible to flash flooding – even after just 0.25 inches of rain in 15 minutes. King County’s Office of Emergency Management and partner agencies have already begun urging neighbors to be prepared and ensure they know how to stay alert and ready heading into the winter.

“With more frequent and severe wildfires seemingly every summer and fall, once the flames and smoke are doused, we must deal with the aftermath into the winter and spring,” said Executive Constantine. “That’s why we’re encouraging residents to be prepared for the potential of sudden debris flows and flash flooding as we face this new reality in our changing climate.”

The Bolt Creek fire burned nearly 15,000 acres and left a massive scar of scorched earth which is harder for rain to permeate. And without thriving vegetation, the soil underneath the scar is weakened as well. With even just a small amount of rain, flash floods and debris flows can form, posing another danger into the winter months.

The King County Office of Emergency Management and Department of Local Services have been coordinating with residents in the vicinity of the burn scar to make sure people can stay connected to emergency alerts, including door-to-door outreach and distributing emergency radios in areas of poor cellular reception.

“Everyone should be prepared for the hazards of winter weather in the area, even if you’re just passing through,” said Brendan McCluskey, King County Emergency Management Director. “Drivers on US 2 should pay attention to weather forecasts and be aware of the risk of flash floods, debris flows, landslides, and other hazards that may close the road. Be sure you have non-perishable food, water, blankets, and other essential supplies in your vehicle.”

Residents can sign up for Alert King County to ensure they are aware of any evacuation orders or warnings throughout the winter. Along with the hazards in the burn scar, residents are encouraged to have an emergency plan and survival supplies and to know their surroundings for the best routes to safety.

More information on wildfire burn scars and flooding risks can be found on the National Weather Service website.

Relevant links

• Subscribe to emergency alerts | Alert King County
• Wildfire burn scars and flooding risks | National Weather Service

Quotes

With more frequent and severe wildfires seemingly every summer and fall, once the flames and smoke are doused, we must deal with the aftermath into the winter and spring. That’s why we’re encouraging residents to be prepared for the potential of sudden debris flows and flash flooding as we face this new reality in our changing climate.

Everyone should be prepared for the hazards of winter weather in the area, even if you're just passing through. Drivers on US 2 should pay attention to weather forecasts and be aware of the risk of flash floods, debris flows, landslides, and other hazards that may close the road. Be sure you have non-perishable food, water, blankets, and other essential supplies in your vehicle.

For more information, contact:

Sheri Badger, Office of Emergency Management, 425-306-4204