The following is a release from King County:

The warm, dry predictions from the fall have been washed away by the reality of heavy rains and swollen rivers. The region is in the midst of its fourth flood event in just six weeks and the Chair of the King County Flood Control District says the wet weather is a reminder of being prepared to protect your family and property from the rising waters.

The King County Flood Warning Center has opened for more than 100 hours to monitor rivers and provide flood information. Since October, the center has been activated on Oct. 30, Nov. 13, and Nov. 17 On Nov. 17, the South Fork Skykomish River rose to the highest levels recorded since 2006.

“This fourth flooding event in so short a period of time is a serious reminder about the value of being aware of any chance of flooding in your area,” said Flood District Chair Reagan Dunn. “Regardless of the forecast, it always pays to be prepared to protect your family and property.”

For information on preparing, responding and recovering from a flood, go to www.kingcounty.gov. The Flood Warning Center is open 24-hours a day during a flood event and residents can speak with King County staff with their flooding concerns and questions by calling 206-296-8200 or 1-800-945-9263.