Heavy rainfall is forecast for later this week, which means King County residents should be prepared to deal with flooding and weather-related emergencies.

“Our crews are prepared for the first potentially serious storm of the season,” said Harold Taniguchi, director of the King County Department of Transportation. “And, as the storm season starts, our Road Services Division already has overnight crews out in the field on the watch for weather-related problems.”

To increase preparedness and enhance response times for a wide range of storms, the Road Services Division (RSD) kicked off its Night Shift Program in mid-October. The overnight crews consist of up to six workers per shift across East and Southeast King County. The crews are on the alert for clogged storm drains, water over the roadways, downed trees, icy roads, or anything that could pose a hazard for motorists traveling in unincorporated areas.

This year, the county also plans to use variable message signs to warn motorists of multiple road closures if severe flooding occurs.

Throughout the storm season, Road Division crews will try to stay one step ahead of the natural elements when it comes to dealing with rain, snow, ice and wind. But, county residents can also do their part.

“We really appreciate it when residents help us out with simple things like clearing leaves away from storm drains, not abandoning their cars or driving through floodwater, and calling us about problems in their unincorporated neighborhoods,” said Tony Ledbetter, maintenance superintendent for the Road Division.

Here are a few tips for coping when a heavy rainstorm or icy roads created transportation challenges:

• Allow ample time to reach your destination in bad weather

• Never drive through standing water, and never go around “Road Closed” barriers

• If you live in an area prone to flooding, have your own supply of sand and sandbags on hand

• Know the safest detour when low-lying roads in your area are underwater

• Equip your vehicle with all-season tires and carry tire chains

• Dress for the weather in case you become stranded and have to walk

• Have supplies such as flashlights and battery powered radios at home in case the power goes out. Visit the 3Days3Ways at www.govlink.org/3days3ways/makeaplan.html for more information about preparing a disaster plan and supply kit.

Residents also are encouraged to report problems on roads in unincorporated King County by calling (206) 296-8100, or 1-800-KC ROADS if they live outside the greater Seattle calling area.

In addition to the traditional weather advisories broadcast on television and radio, there are several online Websites that provide up-to-the-minute information or storm readiness advice:

• Emergency advisories regionwide: www.govlink.org or www.rpin.org

• Local road closures and conditions: www.metrokc.gov/kcdot/roads

• King County traffic cameras: www.metrokc.gov/kcdot/mycommute

• Taking Winter By Storm preparedness topics:www.govlink.org/storm

• King County Emergency Management Office: www.metrokc.gov/prepare

Local residents also can sign up for “King County Alert,” a free e-mail subscription service that alerts motorists about closures and other problems on county maintained roadways. Sign up for the road alert service either at www.metrokc.gov/kcdot/alert/, or through the Regional Public Information Network (RPIN) at www.rpin.org.