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FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 26, 2001 Contact:
Scott Clark, Senior Planner-Water and Waste Management,
360-357-2491 County
Prepares for Potential Groundwater Flooding OLYMPIA – Thurston County officials are tracking rainfall and groundwater levels after above-average precipitation this fall. Gauges at the Olympia airport show more than 29 inches of rain has fallen in the Olympia area since October 1st. That’s about 9 inches above average for the October through December period. The last time so much precipitation was recorded in that period was in 1998 when groundwater flooding was severe in some areas in late winter. Scott Clark of the department of Water and Waste Management says, “We can’t say for sure whether groundwater flooding will happen this winter, but it’s prudent for us to keep an eye on things as we get more rainfall.” Clark says systems installed since the last round of high water are beginning to indicate how fast groundwater levels are coming up. · In the area of 88th and Kimmie Street water levels have risen about 7 feet since October first. · At 93rd and Jones Road there has been a similar rise. · In some areas of the Salmon Creek Basin, water levels are only two feet below the surface. If the county receives average rainfall or more over the next several weeks, there could be groundwater flooding in some low-lying areas by late January. Clark says, “We will continue to monitor precipitation and groundwater levels as we head into the new year and we will also prepare in case the flooding occurs.” Water and Waste Management and the County Emergency Management Division are sending out an advisory newsletter to some homes that could be impacted by ground water flooding. Topics in the newsletter include- use of sandbags, septic system maintenance, drinking water testing, safety tips and contact information for county agencies. Homeowners who want information on the issues can call Water and Waste Management at 360-357-2491. |
