The City of Everett is taking steps to prevent devastating floods by collecting public comment on a new hazard mitigation plan.

Photo byChris GallagheronUnsplash

The plan aims to identify hazards, determine areas of vulnerability, and develop strategies to mitigate risk. The process to implement the plan will take around nine to 12 months, with the public comment period closing on April 5.

Residents can provide feedback or ask questions about the plan by contacting the Director of Emergency Management or taking the hazard mitigation plan survey on the City of Everett's website.

City of Olympia's Flood Prevention Efforts

In downtown Olympia, residents face flooding during high tides and heavy rains. The city's Sea Rise Committee has a plan to prevent flooding by installing back-flow stops on stormwater pipes.

However, flooding is expected to worsen as parts of downtown sink deeper into a landfill. The City of Olympia and its partners are considering floodgates, sea walls, raised land, and native vegetation planting to address the issue.

Rising Sea Levels Impact

Rising sea levels can lead to groundwater impact, causing unexpected flooding due to water levels rising from beneath the ground.

To combat this, the City of Olympia may need to analyze its stormwater and sewer system for additional peak flow management systems.

An analysis of the combined system will help determine if more infrastructure needs to be constructed to manage peak flow.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you think the hazard mitigation plans of Everett and Olympia are comprehensive enough to address the flooding risks? What other measures do you believe cities can take to prevent the impact of rising sea levels and sinking land? How important do you think public participation is in creating effective disaster mitigation plans like those of Everett and Olympia?

Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!