Government

Flooding

Desimone Levee Breach Update – December 17, 2025 – 10:00am

Note: This update is specific to the City of Tukwila. For information related to road closures, response efforts, or conditions in neighboring cities, please refer to those jurisdictions’ official communications. Regional emergency information is available at KCEmergency.com.

Evacuation Status

A Level 1 “READY” evacuation notice remains in effect for the following areas:

  • Southcenter District
  • West Valley Highway area
  • Portions of east Interurban Avenue South, from north of I-405 to the north end of Foster Golf Course

 

Levee Conditions

Repairs to levees along both banks south of South 180th Street are holding. City of Tukwila and King County crews continue regular levee patrols. Additional support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is assisting.

 

Windstorm Impacts and Power Outages

Impacts from last night’s windstorm have been minimal. Residents and businesses experiencing power outages should report them directly to their utility provider:

  • Puget Sound Energy: 1-888-225-5773
  • Seattle City Light: 206-684-3000

If you encounter a downed power line, do not approach it.

 

Road and Trail Impacts

One lane of southbound West Valley Highway remains closed near NC Machinery, just south of the Union Pacific railroad. Due to flooding along portions of the regional trail system, the City is asking people to avoid trails in affected areas. Please obey all posted closure signs, as floodwaters can be dangerous and unpredictable.

 

City Facilities and Parks

Foster Golf Course is closed today due to flooding on portions of the course. Billy Baroo’s is open during regular hours. City Hall and the Tukwila Community Center are open during regular business hours.

 

Property Impacts and Preparedness

Property owners, businesses, and residents in flood-impacted areas are encouraged to document any damage related to flooding. Additional rain is expected in the coming days. Community members are encouraged to have a plan in place for their home and place of business in the event an evacuation order is issued. Evacuation orders can occur suddenly and without advance warning.

Further updates will be provided if conditions change. The City’s Facebook page will continue to have the most up-to-date information.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at ALERT King County. For regional flood information, visit KCEmergency.com.

 

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.