Evacuation Orders Issued as Green River Levee Breach Sparks Flood Alerts in Seattle Area

December 16, 2025
Evacuation Orders Issued as Green River Levee Breach Sparks Flood Alerts in Seattle Area
  • A breached earthen levee along the Green River south of Seattle was shored with sandbags after heavy rainfall, triggering evacuation orders for about 1,100 homes and businesses in Kent, Renton, and Tukwila.

  • Officials said there were no injuries from the breach and described the breach as minimal and being managed amid changing flood conditions.

  • The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning that initially covered tens of thousands before narrowing to roughly 7,000 as impact areas were clarified.

  • Emergency shelters have been opened and listed at Auburn Community and Event Center, Ray of Hope Shelter in Auburn, and Evergreen State Fairgrounds in Monroe, with pets welcomed.

  • Shelters are located at Auburn Community and Event Center (910 9th St. SE, Auburn), Ray of Hope Shelter (2806 Auburn Way N., Auburn), and Evergreen State Fairgrounds (14405 179th Ave. SE., Monroe) and operate around the clock.

  • Reporting notes indicate multiple Associated Press reporters contributed and that updates are ongoing through early Tuesday.

  • Recovery resources and guidance are available, including post-flood information on roads, health and safety, building assessments, waste management, mold cleanup, and flood recovery surveys.

  • King County Emergency Management and local agencies provide flood status updates and shelter maps, with additional guidance at KC emergency sites and Auburn-specific pages.

  • Agencies and responders, including The Valley Regional Fire Authority and local authorities, continue coordinating evacuation information and response efforts.

  • State and county funds totaling several million dollars are being allocated for hotel stays, groceries, and other essentials while awaiting federal help.

  • Officials caution that full damage assessment awaits water recession, with ongoing relief funding from state and counties ahead of broader federal assistance.

Summary based on 36 sources


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