Flooding
Warning Systems
Using the upstream gauge in Hobart, Issaquah's Flood Warning System can usually provide three to four hours lead-time (depending on your location and the extent of the flooding).
Hobart Flood Gauge
To see more data of the upstream gauge in Hobart, visit the USGS website. This external site, however, is only updated once an hour. Using this data, King County also issues flood alerts by phone, text or e-mail.
For more up-to-date information, tune in to the City's Flood Warning System.
National Weather Service Forecasts
The National Weather Service also broadcasts flood warnings for Issaquah Creek (along with other rivers in the region) based on its forecasts and/or observations at the downstream gauge near Lake Sammamish State Park. For forecast information, visit the National Weather Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
When these warnings occur, residents should also monitor the City's Flood Warning System for current, local conditions.
Issaquah's Flood Phases
Phase | Extent of Flooding | Action by City | Action by Residents | Issaquah Creek Level |
I |
|
|
|
|
II |
|
|
|
|
III |
|
|
|
|
IV |
|
|
|
|
How to Prepare
View the City's booklet (PDF) about flood preparedness and response in Issaquah.
Have a Flood Plan
Update flood procedures every year for your family, farm or business.
- Make sure everyone knows the emergency phone numbers and when to call them.
- Learn the safest route from your home or business to high ground.
- Make arrangements for housing in case you need to evacuate your home.
- Identify a meeting place and share phone numbers in case your family is separated by rising flood waters.
- Teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water lines.
King County Flood Alerts
Register to receive updates from the King County Flood Alert system. Automated alerts are one of many ways to help protect your home, family, or business during a flood.
Sand & Bags
Learn more about sand and bag deliveries.
Localized Flooding
To prevent any localized flooding, residents can help out by keeping the storm drains near their homes clear of debris and leaves.
For larger stormwater issues, call the Public Works Department at 425-837-3470.
Flood Maps & Insurance
Find out if you are located in a floodplain, and how to get flood insurance.
Issaquah's Local System
Along with King County's alert system (sign up online), the City of Issaquah posts flood phase information (typically Phase 2 or higher) on its:
- Radio Station: 1700 AM
- TV Station: ICTV Channel 21
- Social media
- Website
Safety
- If you are caught in your building by rapidly rising waters, call 911 for help.
- Then move to a higher floor or to the roof. Take warm, weatherproof clothing, a flashlight, a cell phone and a portable radio.
- Do not walk or wade in flooded areas; be prepared to evacuate
- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Evacuation is much simpler and safer before flood waters become too deep for ordinary vehicles to drive through.
- If you evacuate by car:
- Do not drive where water is over the road or past barricaded road signs.
- If your car stalls in a flooded area, abandon it as soon as possible and walk to safety in the direction you came from.
- Follow recommended evacuation routes, as shortcuts may be blocked.
- When flooding is imminent, but only if time permits:
- Close the main gas valve.
- Turn off all utilities in your building at the main power switch. Do not touch any electrical equipment unless it is in a dry area or you are standing on a piece of dry wood while wearing rubber-soled shoes and rubber gloves.
- Record flood statistics such as time, gage reading, and local flood elevations for use in future home flood forecasting.
Before re-entering your home:
Check for structural damage that could cause the building to collapse. Be cautious of potential gas leaks, electrical shorts and live wires.
- When re-entering a building:
- Use flashlights, rather than lanterns or candles (in case of gas leaks).
- Have a professional check your:
- Heating system, electrical panel, outlets and appliances for safety before using. Call the gas company to have them turn the gas back on.
Clean Up
Follow Seattle-King County Public Health emergency preparedness procedures:
- How to clean a house after a flood.
- Cleaning a basement after a flood.
- Safe food and medicine after a flood.
- Septic tank systems during power outages or floods.
Document your losses and contact your insurance agent for flood loss claims.
- Photograph damages and record repair costs.
Store Sandbags
Do not dump sand into the river or on its banks. Store it for future use.
Apply for Financial assistance
Only available following a federal disaster declaration. Listen to the radio or television for updates on disaster assistance and registration procedures.