Puyallup Residents Urged to Prepare for Flood Risk

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  The City of Puyallup has shared updated flood preparedness guidance for residents living near the Puyallup River and other waterwaysNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The information is posted on the city's Utilities & Infrastructure webpageNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The information outlines how flooding occurs“Flooding can occur in several ways:Rivers and lakes cannot contain excessive rain or snowmeltExcessive rain or snowmelt cannot be fully absorbed into the groundWaterways are blocked with debris or ice and overflowWater containment systems break, such as levees, dams, or water or sewer systems”
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  The information provides specific safety steps for before and during flood eventsNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The guidance explains that flooding can happen slowly over days“Flooding can occur slowly as rain continues to fall for many days. This type of flooding, sometimes called a slow-onset flood, can take a week to develop and can last for months before floodwaters recede.”
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  The guidance explains that flooding can happen rapidly within hours“Rapid-onset floods occur more quickly, typically developing within hours or days. These types of floods usually occur in smaller watersheds experiencing heavy rainfall, particularly in mountainous and urban areas, and the water usually recedes within a few days.”
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  The guidance explains that flooding can happen particularly in low-lying areas near rivers“It is particularly important to be prepared for flooding if you live in a low-lying area near a body of water, such as a river, stream, or culvert; along a coast; or downstream from a dam or levee.”
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  The guidance explains that flooding can happen particularly in urban settingsNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  Residents are advised to check their property's flood hazard rating“Before a Flood Go to Flood Smart.gov to check your property's flood hazard rating.”
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  Residents are advised to develop emergency plans“Develop a family emergency plan (include family pets) and practice your family emergency evacuation routes.”
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  Residents are advised to clear debris from gutters“Help prevent localized flooding by clearing debris from gutters, downspouts and storm drains.”
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  Residents are advised to elevate critical utilities“Elevate and anchor critical utilities including electrical panels, propane tanks, sockets, wiring, appliances, and heating systems.”
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  Residents are advised to install water alarms to protect homes“Install a water alarm and maintain a working sump pump to protect your basement.”
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  During floods, the city warns residents not to drive through flooded roads“DO NOT attempt to drive through a flooded road. DO NOT drive around a barricade. Roads may be washed out under flood waters. Barricades are positioned to keep you safe. Turn Around, Don't Drown!”
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  During floods, the city warns residents to avoid downed power lines“Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Electric current passes easily through water and can be deadly. Stay out of basements or rooms where water is covering electrical outlets and/or submerging cords. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises, get out.”
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  Residents in flood-prone areas should review the full guidance at Flood Smart.govNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  Residents in flood-prone areas should review the full guidance at the city's websiteNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.