Kirkland Emergency Management Update

A Message from OEM - Prepare for Wet Weather

Believe it or not, autumn is just around the corner, and so is the rain and falling leaves that come with the season. 

Weather patterns are changing in our region and we expect an increased frequency of intense rainstorms in Kirkland in future years - which may result in increased occurrences of urban flooding. Kirkland has been working hard to alleviate flooding impacts by maintaining and inspecting storm drains, pipes, and ditches, as well as investigating the replacement and improvement of aging stormwater drainage systems.

We all have a role to play in flood preparation - so take some time to get ready for the wet weather and to reduce flooding in your neighborhood:

Prepare Your Property

• Inspect and maintain any drainage structures, including roof gutters, on your property. Check to make sure that no debris is blocking the structure and water can flow freely.
• Do you have a sump pump on your property? Be sure to test it and make sure it is in good working order before a storm. Consider installing a pump with battery backup in case of power outages.
• If your property is at risk of flooding and it is safe to do so, move items from your basement and garage to higher parts of your home or raise them off the floor.
• Have you experienced flooding in the past? Consider keeping a supply of sandbags on hand. The City of Kirkland has 2 sandbag filling stations, open after Labor Day and through Memorial Day. Each self serve station offers free sand and bags for Kirkland residents, just bring your own shovel. The stations are located at the Public Works Maintenance Center (915 8th St) and the North Kirkland Community Center (12421 103rd Ave NE).

Prevent Neighborhood Flooding

• Clear leaves and debris from storm drains and ditches close to your property too keep them from clogging and causing a backup during heavy rainfall. Dispose of debris in your gray yard waste cart, if you have room to do so.
• Do not rake or blow leaves from your property into the street. You could be billed for clean up by the City if found doing so.
• Call 425-587-3900 if flooding is severe and you are unable to clear the storm drain.

Upcoming Preparedness Classes

Virtual Family Prep Night

A night of disaster preparedness for the whole family! This online event will include a storyline activity, hands-on preparedness activities, opportunities to move around and test your emergency plans, and time to ask questions. Hosted by FEMA Region 10, the American Red Cross, and emergency management offices in Washington, Alaska, Oregon and Idaho.

Date: Tuesday, September 14

Time: 6:30 - 7:15 p.m.

Location: Virtual on Zoom

Learn more and sign up here

ShakeOut! Earthquake Prep

Millions of people worldwide will practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On as part of the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills on October 21. Come learn all about Kirkland's seismic risk, safety actions you can take, and debunk some common earthquake myths.

Date: Thursday, October 21

Time: 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Location: Virtual on Zoom

Learn more and sign up here

Be Informed - Get Emergency Information

Do you know how to get information during an emergency? ALERT King County is a notification service offered by King County Emergency Management. ALERT King County helps you stay informed about potential hazards and threats that could impact your area.

Reister your physical address(es), email address(es), and phone number(s) to receive important safety information. Sign up is free and secure. Visit www.kingcounty.gov/alert to learn more.

There are lots of ways to get information during an emergency, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/beinformed for more.

Quote of the Quarter

“Autumn is the season to find contentment at home by paying attention to what we already have". - Unknown

Contact Us

Email:
KirklandEM@kirklandwa.gov

Phone:
(425) 587-3691