Emergency proclamation issued in King County
Extensive wind damage reported around county
King County Executive Ron Sims has issued an emergency proclamation in response to the overnight wind and flooding occurring throughout the county. The King County Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) has been activated overnight monitor the situation and help coordinate the county’s response efforts. King County’s West Point Treatment Plant sustained some significant damages to their control operations due to flooding. Additionally, early indications are that King County may was one of the hardest hit areas with power outages in the region. Puget Sound Energy is reporting 700,000 customers without power in their nine county service area.
Morning commute:
The King County ECC is alerting the public to expect significant traffic delays during the Friday morning commute. Numerous roads in King County have been closed because of fallen trees and power lines and could remain impassable Friday morning. County officials recommend that commuters delay their morning drive until daybreak if at all possible. Increased visibility during daylight hours will make it easier for commuters to see hazards, water, and debris in the road and lessen the impact of what will surely be a slow morning commute.
Up to date road closure information can be found at the King County Road Alert web site at: www.metrokc.gov/kcdot/roads/roadalert.
Washington Department of Transportation has closed the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge (SR 520) due to high winds and water over the roadway. The bridge will reopen when winds subside but that could be as late as noon Friday. Other major routes experiencing delays will include, the I-90 Bridge, I-405 near Tukwila and Highway 99 in Central Seattle.
Power line safety:
If you see a downed power line, do not touch it or attempt to dive over it. Assume the line is live and move toward safety slowly by shuffling your feet along the ground as you walk far away from the power line. This will prevent you from being electrocuted. When you are a safe distance away call 9-1-1. Downed power lines can be reported to Puget Sound Energy by calling 1-888-225-5773.