Puyallup Residents Urged to Prepare for Flood Risks

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  The City of Puyallup has shared updated flood preparedness information for residents living near waterwaysNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The notice emphasizes that flooding can occur rapidly during heavy rain or snowmelt“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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  Flooding can occur particularly in low-lying areas and near rivers or culverts“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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  Residents are advised to check their property's flood hazard rating at FloodSmart.gov“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 evacuation plans“Develop a family emergency plan (include family pets) and practice your family emergency evacuation routes.”
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  Residents are advised to secure critical utilities like electrical panels and water heaters“Elevate and anchor critical utilities including electrical panels, propane tanks, sockets, wiring, appliances, and heating systems.”
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  The city also recommends clearing debris from gutters and storm drains to prevent localized flooding“Help prevent localized flooding by clearing debris from gutters, downspouts and storm drains.”
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  The city recommends clearing debris from storm drains especially in neighborhoods along the Puyallup RiverNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The guidance includes specific steps such as elevating appliances in basements“If your furnace, water heater, washer and dryer are in the basement or flood prone area, place them on masonry blocks or concrete at least 12-inches above the projected flood elevation.”
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  The guidance includes installing water alarms“Install a water alarm and maintain a working sump pump to protect your basement. Install a battery-operated pump in case of power failure.”
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  The guidance includes avoiding driving 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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  The city notes that most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles“Most flood fatalities occur in vehicles - only twelve inches can carry away a small vehicle.”
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  The city urges residents to 'Turn Around, Don't Drown!' during flood events“Turn Around, Don't Drown!”