Sirens are sounding along the Green River tonight. A levee along the river has failed, and fast moving water is pushing into low lying neighborhoods. I am seeing swift evacuations and rising water near roadways. Flash flood warnings are active, and more rain is still falling.
Evacuation orders are in effect for parts of Tukwila, Auburn, and several south Seattle suburbs. Crews are moving door to door where they can. If you live in a flood zone near the Green River, leave now. Take your go bag, pets, and essential papers. Roads can go under quickly.
What happened and who is at risk
The levee breach sent water across the floodplain, which is the flat land next to the river. This is why officials issued immediate evacuation orders. Houses, apartments, and businesses near the river face the highest risk. So do roadways that dip into the valley.
Floodwater does not move like a slow lake. It rises in bursts. It carries debris, oil, and mud. It can undercut roads and push cars off course in seconds. Expect closures and delays along local arterials, plus possible power cuts if equipment gets flooded.
If you are told to evacuate, do it now. Do not wait for a knock on the door.
Response on the ground
Emergency teams are positioning high water vehicles and swift water rescue boats. Public works crews are trying to reinforce weak spots with rock and sandbags where it is safe. Traffic units are closing streets that are taking water. Shelters are being prepared for evacuees, with priority for families, older adults, and people with medical needs.
Water levels will change through the night as upstream flow moves downstream. That means areas that look safe now can flood later. Please keep vehicles off closed roads. Crews need clear routes to move equipment and reach people.
Keep your phone on. Follow official alerts from your city, county, and state emergency managers for location specific instructions.
Why the levee failed, and the climate link
This week brought a warm, moisture rich storm into western Washington, the kind often called an atmospheric river. It dumped heavy rain over several days. Soils are saturated. Small creeks are already high. When intense rain piles on soaked ground, rivers swell fast. Pressure on levees rises, and weak sections can fail.
Climate change is raising the odds of these heavy downpours. Warmer air holds more moisture, so when storms arrive, they wring out more rain in a short burst. In valleys like the Green River basin, that means higher peaks and more stress on aging flood defenses. Many levees were built for a past climate. They face a future with stronger storms and more frequent tests.
How to stay safe right now
Flood safety is simple, but it must be strict. Water wins every time. If you are in or near the evacuation zone, act now.
- Move to higher ground. Do not wait to see water at your door.
- Never drive through floodwater. Turn around, find another way.
- Keep children and pets out of the water. It is toxic and fast.
- Unplug appliances on lower floors if you have time and it is safe.
Pack light and smart. Medications, IDs, chargers, warm layers, a flashlight, and a small first aid kit.
If you cannot leave, move to the highest interior room and call 911. Signal rescuers with a bright cloth or light. Do not go to a flooded basement. Avoid touching electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
What this means for future resilience
Tonight’s breach exposes a bigger problem. We are living behind systems built for milder weather. To reduce risk, communities along the Green River will need a mix of upgrades. Stronger, wider, and set back levees can lower pressure on the riverbank. Restored floodplains and wetlands can spread and slow high water. Better drainage and pump stations can keep roads open longer. Buyouts in the highest risk areas can move people out of harm’s way.
Early warning is part of the fix. Real time river gauges, smarter alerts, and clear evacuation routes save lives. So does planning that keeps new homes out of the deep floodplain. Tonight is a hard reminder. Water seeks its space. We must give it room, or it will take it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which areas are under evacuation orders right now?
A: Parts of Tukwila, Auburn, and several south Seattle suburbs near the Green River. Follow local alerts for exact streets and blocks.
Q: How long will the flash flood warning last?
A: Through the peak flow period, which could run overnight and into tomorrow. Officials will update the alert as conditions change.
Q: Is tap water safe during flooding?
A: If officials issue a boil water notice, follow it right away. If you are unsure, use bottled water for drinking and cooking.
Q: What should I bring if I evacuate?
A: Medications, IDs, cash or cards, phone and chargers, clothes, pet supplies, and any key medical gear.
Q: I cannot evacuate. What should I do?
A: Move to the highest interior level, avoid floodwater, call 911, and make yourself visible to rescuers.
This is a fast moving emergency, and it is still unfolding. Leave if you are told to leave, and help neighbors who need a hand. The river will crest, and the water will fall, but the lessons will remain. We can build back safer, and we must.
