On December 27, 2022, the Duwamish River overtopped its banks and flooded a South Park neighborhood which damaged local homes and businesses. The flooding was caused by a combination of factors including higher-than-average tides, low atmospheric pressure, heavy rain runoff, and melting snow. This area has faced prior flooding, as well as environmental and health challenges, due to historical inequities and industrial contamination. The City of Seattle is working to reduce the risk of future flooding, including improving drainage, to support healthy, livable communities. Drinking water in the area has been tested and is safe.
How to Get Help
- The City is working with the Red Cross and local community groups including Duwamish River Community Coalition, Just Health Action, Khmer Community Seattle King County, Villa Communitaria, and Cultivate South Park to assist impacted residents.
- Email SouthParkFlooding@seattle.gov for resources and assistance.
- Food, hotel vouchers, pumps, clean up equipment, and other supplies are currently available for households that are impacted. Residents should not stay in flood-impacted houses.
- The City and County sometimes provide reimbursements when there are sewer backups or when the sewer or stormwater system malfunctions. Residents with damages should file a claim with the City, and the City may provide reimbursement upon its evaluation of the claim. Find more information about filing a damage claim.
- Federal and state recovery assistance is not guaranteed and will depend on assessments.
- If you need help with your utility bills, financial assistance is available. Please call (206) 684-3000, interpretation services are available. You can also find utility bill help online.
- For business support, including help with navigating insurance claims, call OED at (206) 684-8090 or email oed@seattle.gov.
What to Do After Flooding?
- Do not wade in floodwater, it may be contaminated, have dangerous debris, or have live wires.
- Do not stay in buildings which were flooded until they have been thoroughly cleaned, aired out, and inspected for structural safety and health hazards like bacteria and mold.
- Do not turn on power in flooded properties until an electrical inspection occurs.
- Do not allow children or those with health risks to enter buildings which were flooded.
- Wear protective equipment to cover eyes, mouth, nose, and skin when retrieving items or making repairs to buildings which were flooded.
- Contact your homeowners, renters, or business insurance provider if you have one.
- Save receipts for any items or services related to repairing or cleaning your home.
- Take pictures of any damage to your property, belongings, and valuables.
- Review EPA guidelines on what to keep and what to throw away after a flood.
- Place flood-damaged items and debris on the curb for garbage pickup.