The National Weather Service has a flood watch in effect from Saturday afternoon through Monday afternoon. The cities of Kenmore and Bothell encourage residents to prepare for wind, rain and flooding.
How to help
Residents can help minimize and possibly prevent flooding with the following tips:
• Clear your sidewalk and nearby street drains of leaves. Do not remove the grate from the storm drain opening — this does not unclog the system and creates a hazard for everyone. Place your leaves in a yard-waste container or compost bin, not in the street.
• Clear all gutters of leaves and debris and place in yard-waste containers or composting bins.
• Check storm drains frequently to remove leaves and debris around the grates.
• Have premade sandbags available in case of an unexpected urban flood.
Sandbags
The city of Kenmore has deployed sandbags at five designated locations for use during the flood season. Residents are responsible for the pickup and placement of sandbags on their property. Please notify the city prior to taking sandbags by calling (425) 398-8900 or e-mail cityhall@kenmorewa.gov. This will allow the city to track the number of sandbags used so that the locations can be resupplied.
Sandbag locations:
• Near Kenmore Elementary
Northeast 192nd Street and 73rd Avenue Northeast
• Old Kenmore Park and Ride
18201 68th Ave. N.E.
• Rhododendron Park
6910 N.E. 170th St.
• Log Boom Park
60th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 175th Street
• Arrowhead Drive
67th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 155th Street
Safety tips
Heavy rainfall can cause trees to fall and possible power outages. Public Works crews are ready to remove fallen trees from the road. If wires are on the ground, the proper agencies will be contacted.
• Remember to use alternative heat sources safely and wisely. Follow manufacturers’ instructions. Adequately vent fueled space heaters (e.g., kerosene, propane, alcohol) to avoid fatal carbon monoxide gas buildup. Also, do not use outdoor grills or camp stoves indoors as it may cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Watch for “Street Closed” signs. They are placed by crews for your safety.
• Stay away from downed power lines. To report a downed power line or a power outage, contact Puget Sound Energy at (888) 225-5773.
• Check on your disaster preparedness kit to ensure it contains enough food, water, flashlights and other supplies to last at least three days. Remember to rotate and update your supplies every six months.
• Listen to your radio or television for storm forecasts and other information.
• Call 9-1-1 only for emergencies.
For assistance and information
• If localized flooding is severe and you are unable to clear the drain, call Kenmore City Hall at (425) 398-8900 during business hours or after hours call (206) 296-8100.
• Puget Sound Energy — to report a power outage, call (888) 225-5773.
• Northshore Utility District, call (425) 398-4400.
