The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Seattle District has reduced the water release flow from Howard Hanson Dam in an effort to help lower flood elevations near the Desimone levee along the Green River.
Army Corps also will provide 100 super sacks at the request of King County to help control the leak that led to an evacuation of an industrial/business area in Tukwila, Kent and Renton.
Amry Corps personnel are on the ground and working with King County officials to assess infrastructure damage and determine next steps after a Green River levee breach.
King County officials reported a breach at the Desimone Levee in Tukwila to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at approximately noon Dec. 15, according to an Army Corps news release.
“Under Public Law 84-99, Emergency Response to Natural Disasters, the Corps of Engineers has the authority to provide emergency support to state and local governments before, during and after flood events,” said Krystle Walker, Seattle District chief of emergency management. “This authority allows the Army Corps to provide both technical assistance and direct assistance in response to flooding.”
At approximately 1:30 p.m., Army Corps initiated a 1,000 cubic feet per second reduction in releases from Howard A. Hanson Dam, high up on the Green River that helps control flooding. This reduction is expected to lower flood elevations near the Desimone Levee by 1 to 2 feet.
“With this reduction, the county should see a decrease in water elevation within 18 to 20 hours,” said Kyle Comanor, Seattle District senior water manager. “Additional reductions are under review; however, we must evaluate potential risks to other saturated levees associated with rapid drawdown.”
Army Corps staff remains in close coordination with King County and will continue to provide support as requested.
Hanson Dam is currently operating as designed, according to Army Corps staff.
The public is urged to remain vigilant as flood conditions can change rapidly. Residents seeking resources or assistance should contact their local government offices.
For additional information, King County’s Emergency Blog is available at https://kcemergency.com/.
