BREAKING: Tukwila Flood Warning Issued as Green River Levee Breaks Near I-405 - Evacuation Map Inside
NWS Seattle issued a flash flood warning after a Green River levee broke near Tukwila; Gov. Bob Ferguson said water is moving north of I-405.
A flash flood warning has been issued for the Seattle area after a levee on the Green River broke near Tukwila, Washington, on Monday. The levee failure, which occurred at 11:51 a.m., has prompted immediate evacuation orders in Tukwila, Kent, and Renton. According to Governor Bob Ferguson, the levee breach took place near Todd Boulevard, causing water from the Green River to flow towards the I-405.
As the water threatens to inundate the area, the National Weather Service (NWS) has warned residents to move north or south of the affected location to avoid flooding. The NWS has also cautioned against walking or driving in standing or flowing water and advised against driving past road closures or obstacles.
With over 46,000 people at risk, including two schools and a hospital, the NWS has stressed the importance of seeking immediate shelter. Those in low-lying areas are advised to move to higher ground immediately. For those in need of emergency shelter, the King County Emergency Management has designated three shelters: the Auburn Community and Event Center, the Ray of Hope Shelter, and the Evergreen State Fairgrounds, which welcomes pets.
The flash flood warning is in effect until 9 p.m. PST on Monday. Residents can check the evacuation map for more information on the affected areas and emergency shelters.