Government

Flooding

Desimone Levee Breach Update – December 15, 2025

The City of Tukwila is providing an update on the Desimone Levee breach earlier today. This information is specific to Tukwila. For regional updates, visit King County Emergency. The City will use our main Facebook page for updates: www.facebook.com/CityofTukwila/

The City is providing an update on the Desimone Levee and issuing a limited “BE SET” advisory for the Southcenter District, West Valley Hwy area, and the eastside of Interurban Ave South (north of I-405 and the north end of Foster Golf Course).

 

Desimone Levee Update

  • At approximately 11:30 a.m., King County notified the City of a breach on the Desimone Levee.
  • The affected area in Tukwila is a commercial business park in the southeast corner of Tukwila. The area impacted extends into Kent and Renton. No residential structures in Tukwila are affected.
  • A GO NOW evacuation order was issued; Tukwila Police assisted with traffic control.
  • King County is posting the latest information at kcemergency.com.
  • Tukwila residential neighborhoods, including Allentown, Foster Point, and Duwamish, are not affected at this time.
  • Areas north of S. 180th Street and west of the Green River remain open. The Southcenter District is open.
  • The flow of water has been stopped, and King County is completing a temporary repair this evening.

 

Evacuation Preparedness: Southcenter, limited parts of Interurban Ave S, and West Valley Hwy.

  • Conditions can change suddenly with very little warning. The City is encouraging people to “GET SET” to leave on very short notice in the Southcenter District, West Valley Hwy area, and the eastside of of Interurban Ave South (north of I-405 and the north end of Foster Golf Course) that are prone to flooding. Conditions may worsen and access routes could become limited.
  • Begin preparing to evacuate from your business or residence if an order is given. Gather and protect essential items such as medications, important documents, pets and pet supplies, and phone chargers.
  • Reduce unnecessary trips and avoid flood-prone areas, especially around rivers and creeks. Do not return to evacuated (“GO NOW”) areas. Maps will be updated when it is safe to return.
  • Stay alert and check for updates often. Make a plan now to leave quickly if an evacuation order is issued.
  • You can find a map of Tukwila’s “Get Set” and “Go Now” evacuation areas here.

 

For the latest information go to: King County Emergency.

For information about current flooding, contact the King County Flood Warning Center at 206-296-8200 or visit their website at https://flood.kingcounty.gov/

Tukwila, like many communities in King County, are located along a major river system. Combinations of heavy rain, melting snow, or other severe storm threats can make living in a flood plain dangerous.

Tukwila residents and businesses need to be aware of the risks of flooding.

 

Be Prepared

  • Learn the safest route from your home or business to higher ground.
  • Think about where you’ll go if you have to leave your home because of flooding.
  • Teach everyone in your home how, where, and when to turn off utilities.
  • Review your flood insurance policy. If you don’t have a policy, consider one. Contact your insurance agent or visit www.floodsmart.gov
  • Follow the King County Flood Warnings Page
  • Sign up to receive Flood Alerts

 

During a Flood –What to do

  • Monitor local media and NOAA Weather Radio for information and emergency instructions.
  • Have your emergency kit ready to go if told to evacuate.
  • If you are told to evacuate, LEAVE IMMEDIATELY. Do not delay or refuse to leave. You could be jeopardizing your safety, the safety of first responders, and hinder rescue efforts.
  • Move your furniture, valuables, and chemicals to higher levels of your home.

 

During a Flood –What NOT to do

  • Do not drive around barricades –they are for your safety.
  • Most cars can be carried away by two feet of moving water. NEVER drive through a flooded area.
  • DO NOT walk or wade through flood waters.