As the latest stormy weather moves out of the area, it’s a reminder that storm and flood season is here and inclement weather will soon return.
Rain, wind and cloudy weather is forecast again for Thursday, December 10, and a revised forecast for periods of rain and showers tapering off in the evening, will allow the rivers to recede below flood stage.
Thurston County Emergency Management encourages everyone to take this break in the weather as an opportunity to improve their preparedness and safety. A primary preparedness tip includes storing enough food and water to be on your own for at least 72 hours. There are many preparedness links on the Emergency Management website at www.co.thurston.wa.us/em or you can email easonv@co.thurston.wa.us.
Residents of unincorporated Thurston County can call the Roads Maintenance division at (360) 867-2300 to report flooded roads. Residents are urged to only use 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies and any downed power lines. For power outages, please contact Puget Sound Energy at 800-225-5773 to ensure they are aware of the outage.
Thurston County Emergency Management officials urge drivers to use caution in wet weather and stay away from flooded roads. “It only takes 18 inches of water to float a small car, so even if a roadway isn’t officially closed, the only safe bet is to avoid flooded roads and find an alternate route,” says Sandy Johnson, Thurston County Emergency Management Manager. Do NOT drive around road barricades!
For more emergency information, visit www.co.thurston.wa.us/em/EI/EI.asp or call 360-867-2800. Stay connected with TCEM with social media and get Thurston County Emergency Management updates on Facebook and Twitter:
Facebook: ThurstonEM
Twitter: @ThurstonEM
