By Steven Schauer, Deputy Executive Director

As the ghosts and goblins come out for Halloween, there’s another kind of fright creeping into King County – flood season! From October through April, rain-swollen rivers and rising groundwater can turn your neighborhood into something straight out of a horror movie. But unlike haunted houses or eerie fog, this is one “scare” you can prepare for.

Just like you wouldn’t face a zombie apocalypse without a plan, you shouldn’t face flood season unprepared. So, grab your flashlight, put on your brave face, and get ready for a frightfully smart way to stay safe this Halloween.

👻 The Real-Life Thriller: Flood Season in King County

Every year, as the rains return to the Pacific Northwest, our rivers begin to swell and low-lying areas can flood, sometimes with little warning. Flooding is King County’s most common natural disaster, and while it doesn’t come with jump scares or spooky music, it can cause serious damage to homes, roads, and businesses.

The good news? Unlike the villain in a horror film, you can stop flooding from catching you off guard with a little preparedness magic.

🧙‍♀️ Cast a “Protection Spell” on Your Home

A few simple tricks can save you from a nasty surprise:

• Know your flood risk. Check out the King County FEMA Flood Map to see if your home is in a floodplain.
• Stay informed. Sign up for Flood Alerts and download the Flood Warning App for near real-time updates.
• Get flood insurance. Standard homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover flood damage and new policies take 30 days to take effect. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
• Create an emergency kit. Pack essentials like flashlights, first aid, food, and water in a waterproof bin. (Bonus points for glow sticks – they’re Halloween festive and practical.)
• Plan your escape route. Practice how you’d safely evacuate. No one wants to end up the star of “Night of the Rising Waters.”

🦇 When the Floodwaters Rise: Don’t Be a Fool This Ghoul Season

If a flood hits, it’s no time to play tricks. Follow these lifesaving treats of advice:

• Turn around, don’t drown! Just 12 inches of water can sweep you off your feet – or your car off the road.
• Listen for emergency alerts and leave immediately if told to evacuate.
• Shut off utilities only if it’s safe to do so and never wade through floodwater – you don’t want to find out what’s lurking below.

If you can’t evacuate safely, call 911 and move to higher ground with a flashlight and phone.

🕸️ After the Storm: Beware of Lingering Curses

When the floodwaters recede, the danger isn’t over. Floodwater can hide contamination, structural damage, and electrical hazards, all of which can be a real nightmare for homeowners!

• Wait for the all-clear before reentering your home.
• Have professionals inspect your utilities.
• Document everything. Take photos, record high-water marks, and contact your insurance agent right away.
• Clean up safely. Gloves, boots, and protective clothing aren’t just for costumes!

🎃 Stay Safe, Not Scared

The King County Flood Control District is helping residents across the county Be Flood Ready through expanded outreach, new brochures (available in 23 languages!), and even a Be Flood Ready video. These resources provide practical tips on how to prepare before, during, and after a flood, and no crystal ball required!

Floods are no treat, but being prepared is the ultimate trick. So, this Halloween, don’t let Mother Nature play the villain in your story.

Stay informed, stay safe, and remember: It’s always better to be prepared than petrified.

👻 Happy Halloween from the King County Flood Control District — where we fight floods, not fright!