Flood watch in effect for Thurston County

A flood watch has been issued for Thurston County and the Emergency Coordination Center was activated because of an atmospheric river that has pounded the region with rain for days.

The National Weather Service Office in Seattle said the flood watch is in place until 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12.

“An atmospheric river will continue to impact the area through much of the week and bring periods (of) moderate to heavy rain to the region,” said the National Weather Service Office in issuing the flood watch on Wednesday, Dec. 10.

“Sharp rises are occurring on area rivers, especially those flowing off the Olympics and Cascades. Urban and small stream flooding is possible for areas with poor drainage. Saturated soils will bring increased potential for landslides and debris flows on burn scars.”

The National Weather Service Office forecast calls for rain throughout the week and into next week in Thurston County.

Precipitation amounts should be around one-quarter to one-half inch on Wednesday evening and one-tenth to one-quarter inch on Thursday, Dec. 11.

The weather conditions also prompted Thurston County Emergency Management to activate the coordination center. The county announced the move on Wednesday afternoon.

Residents who need assistance or have nonemergency questions related to the weather event can reach the call center at 360-867-2800.

The county also issued the following information on related subject, ranging from its emergency notification system to reporting flood damage and how to get updates on social media.

TC Alert

Thurston Community Alert (TC Alert) is the county’s official emergency notification system and is one of the most reliable ways to stay informed about hazardous conditions in your area. Alerts may include weather hazards, boil-water notices, evacuation orders, and other critical information.

Residents can learn more and sign up here. Subscribers can choose to receive alerts via wireless device, email, landline phone, or all three. TC Alert also allows users to select the types of information they want to receive, including river notifications and public safety alerts for life-threatening events and emergencies.

Evacuation levels

In the event that evacuations become necessary, residents are urged to understand and follow the established evacuation levels to ensure their safety and support emergency response efforts.

Level 1 – “Ready”: Be aware of conditions and prepare to leave. Monitor alerts, check on neighbors, and assemble your evacuation plan and "Go Kit." Conditions can change quickly, and you may not receive a Level 2 warning before a Level 3 order. If you feel unsafe, leave early.

Level 2 – “Set”: Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Those needing extra time — including individuals with disabilities, families with young children, people with medical needs, and those with large animals — should evacuate now. Keep your Go Kit in your vehicle, stay alert to official updates, and leave immediately if you feel unsafe.

Level 3 – “Go!”: Evacuate immediately; danger is current or imminent. Follow directions from law enforcement and fire personnel. Do not return until officials announce it is safe.

Reporting flooded roads

To report flooded roads during regular business hours, call Thurston County Public Works at 360- 867-2300. After hours, on weekends, or on holidays, road-related concerns should be directed to TCOMM Dispatch at 360-704-2740. Please use 911 only for life-threatening emergencies.

County road closures can be tracked here.

River conditions may change rapidly. Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring the National Weather Service, NOAA Weather Radio, local news outlets, and the Thurston County website for the latest updates.

Flood resources, sandbag information

Residents can visit the county’s Flood Information web page for the latest sandbag locations, road and traffic updates, river level monitoring, and information on signing up for TC Alert. Sandbags can help divert moving water away from structures, though they do not create a fully water-tight seal. They remain an effective resource in most flooding situations. 

Reporting flood damage

Residents should carefully document any flood-related damage to their homes or property. Clear and thorough documentation helps the county assess community impacts and determine what assistance may become available.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Take photos and videos of all damage to your home, outbuildings, land and personal property.
• Save all receipts for repairs, supplies, equipment rentals, or cleanup costs.
• Write down key details, including dates, times and descriptions of what was damaged or affected.

Once you’ve gathered your information, please submit it through the county’s Disaster Damage Estimate Form, available here.

While reporting your damage does not guarantee any funding or individual assistance, the information you provide is vital. These reports help the county understand the full scope of impacts and advocate for state or federal aid if thresholds are met. 

Septic system, well flooding

When flooding occurs, both private drinking water wells and septic systems can become contaminated or damaged, creating significant health and safety risks. Floodwaters often carry sewage and pathogens, making well water unsafe to drink until the water has been boiled, the well has been disinfected, and bacteriological testing confirms it is safe; electrical components should also be inspected. Learn more here. 

Solid waste management

Store solid waste and household hazardous materials (like paint, cleaners, batteries, oil, and gas) in watertight, securely closed containers, and keep them in a garage or outdoor structure to prevent contamination from floodwaters. For questions, call 360-867-2664.

Stay connected

Follow Thurston County Emergency Management on social media for ongoing updates throughout this event:

• Facebook: Click here.
• Instagram: @thurstoncountyem

• X (Twitter): @thurstonem