Recently discovered depressions in the right bank adjacent to Howard Hanson Dam have led the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to reduce the amount of water it will hold behind the dam during the flood season. This reduced flood storage capacity increases the risk of flooding to Green River Valley communities.

Because engineers are still determining the exact nature of the problem with the dam’s right abutment and how to fix it, officials of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Washington Emergency Management Division are urging residents and businesses of the Green River Valley area, to buy flood insurance.

Most homeowner and business insurance does not cover flood damage. Insuring residential or commercial property against flooding can be relatively cheap compared to the potentially high cost of rebuilding. Flood insurance is designed to be affordable, and residents of King County may be eligible for a 40-percent discount on their premiums.

People should be aware that, in general, there is a 30-day waiting period before coverage becomes effective.

Flood insurance for homeowners, renters, and business owners is available through local insurance agents. Homeowners can insure their homes up to $250,000 and contents are insured up to $100,000. Renters can also cover their belongings up to $100,000. Commercial property owners can insure their buildings for up to $500,000 and the contents for up to $500,000. FEMA and state officials recommend people purchase enough coverage to replace their property and protect their equity.

Flood insurance pays off whether or not there is a presidential declaration. FEMA can only offer financial assistance to residents in the event of a presidential disaster declaration. Most flooding is not extensive enough to warrant a declaration but can still be very costly for homeowners.

To learn about preparing for floods, or purchasing flood insurance, and the benefits of protecting homes, business and property against flooding, visit www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-888-379-9531 (TTY 1-800-427-5593). For more information about the situation with the Howard Hanson Dam, check the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ website at http://www.nws.usace.army.mil.

For more information on how to prepare your location of the Green River Valley, start at King County’s website at: http://www.kingcounty.gov/safety/prepare/FloodPlan_GRiverBasin.aspx.

Contact Auburn Reporter News reporter Robert Whale at rwhale@auburn-reporter.com or 253-833-0218, ext. 5052.

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