Preparedness guide
Washington
Washington's NOAA state climate summary identifies heavy precipitation and flooding, snowpack, melt, and runoff, drought and variable water availability as durable preparedness context. This statewide context does not estimate address-level exposure.
Durable risk context
- NOAA identifies heavy or extreme precipitation and flooding as relevant planning concerns in Washington; the type and severity of risk vary by watershed and location.
- In parts of Washington, snow accumulation, the share of precipitation falling as rain, and melt timing can affect runoff, water availability, and seasonal flooding.
- NOAA also identifies drought or variable water availability in Washington; dry conditions do not eliminate short-duration flood or water-intrusion hazards.
Prepare safely
- Know how to receive local warnings, where to find official flood-risk information, and which evacuation or shelter instructions apply to your location.
- Before seasonal melt or rain-on-snow conditions, keep drainage paths clear where safe and watch official runoff, roof, and river guidance.
- Keep important documents and essential supplies protected, and never walk or drive through floodwater.
- Treat intense rainfall and post-fire or very dry ground cautiously; follow local warnings rather than assuming water will soak in safely.
- After water enters a building, address electrical, structural, and contamination hazards before cleanup or documentation.
Sources
- Guidelines for Cleaning Safely After a Disaster — U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Flooded Homes Cleanup Guidance — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Floods — Federal Emergency Management Agency
- Washington State Climate Summary 2022 — NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information
External links are supplemental; the core safety boundaries are included on this page.