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Be Prepared for Storms—Sandbags Available from Seattle Public Utilities

Flood_ElliottandDenny_1933_SeattleMunicipalArchivesStorm season is underway and Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is offering a limited number of free, filled sandbags to households or business owners in flood-prone areas.  If you’ve experienced, or come close to, flooding, you may consider using sandbags.

Sandbags don’t seal out water, but can help redirect the flow of water and protect property from debris.  Sandbags must be used with caution because it is illegal to divert water to your neighboring properties.

SPU is making up to 25 sandbags available to households or businesses at four locations listed below starting October 15.  Sandbags are heavy (they weigh about 40 pounds each), so be sure either you, or someone you bring with you, can lift, carry and load the sandbags into your vehicle.  To make sure there are enough sandbags available for all those in need, please limit your supply to 25 sandbags per address.  

Sandbag Pick-Up Locations:

Delridge Community Center
4501 Delridge Way SW
Seattle, WA 98106

South Park Neighborhood
731 S. Sullivan
Seattle, WA 98108

Helene Madison Pool
13401 Meridian N
Seattle, WA 98133

Meadowbrook Community Center
10517 35th Ave. NE
Seattle, WA 98125

You can pick up sandbags at these locations any time, while supplies last.  You can get information online about how to place, stack and dispose of sandbags at the web site, seattle.gov/util/storm, or by contacting Michael Mociulski at (206) 660-5678 or michael.mociulski@seattle.gov

Sandbags: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) helping residents and businesses in flood-prone areas prepare for storm season?

SPU is offering the public a limited number of free, filled sandbags.

2. My property has never experienced flooding, or come close to flooding. Should I take part in the free sandbag program?

No. Since there are limited numbers of sandbags available to the public, please help us serve the most vulnerable residents and businesses.

3. What should I know before picking up my sandbags?

Sandbags are heavy. They weigh about 40 pounds each, so be sure either you, or someone you bring with you, can lift, carry and load the sandbags into your vehicle.

4. Will using sandbags guarantee my property will not be flooded?

 No. Sandbags don’t seal out water, but can help redirect the flow of water and protect property from debris. Sandbags must be used with caution because it is illegal to divert water to neighboring properties.

Photo Info: Flood at Elliott and Denny, 1933, Seattle Municipal Photo Archives