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MEDIA RELEASE Date: November 3, 2020 Contact: Arden Thomas, Water Resource Manager, 509-962-7523 November is Flood Awareness Month Flood season and winter are on their way. NOAA recently issued its winter climate outlook for December 2020 through February 2021. La Nina conditions are expected to persist, which increases the likelihood that we will experience a cool and wet winter. The Board of County Commissioners and Kittitas County Flood Control Zone District urge all county residents to be prepared for the upcoming flood season. Kittitas County urges residents to be aware of potential flood and hazardous weather conditions. The National Weather Service releases weather alerts to provide you with advanced notification of potential flooding. Flood watches are released when flooding is possible, and you should remain alert and prepare for the potential need to evacuate. Flood warnings are released when a flood is reported or is imminent. During a warning you must act quickly to safely evacuate if you are in the danger area. These weather alerts are released through the internet, the media, and NOAA Weather Radio. There are many other ways to remain alert to potential flooding, such as observing the NWS river level forecasts. There are links to many helpful websites on the County's Flood Warning System webpage at www.co.kittitas.wa.us/public- works/flood/Waming.aspx. All county and city residents should take steps to protect their property from flood impacts, even if they do not live within a regulated floodplain. Because of the county's vast network of streams and ditches, flooding can unexpectedly occur almost anywhere. The following steps can be taken to prevent or reduce impacts from flooding. Know your risk. To determine if your property is in a known risk area, visit www.floodsmart.gov, call your local jurisdiction or the County's Floodplain Manager at 509- 962-7523, or view the County's online mapping service at gis.co.kittitas.wa.us. Floodwater doesn't stay within defined risk areas, so be aware of streams and ditches that could potentially flood your property. Check your insurance coverage. Standard homeowner's insurance does not cover flooding. Consider purchasing a flood insurance policy. Flood insurance is available for all properties, not just those within a defined risk area. If your property is located outside of the defined risk area, you may qualify for a reduced rate Preferred Risk Policy. Contact your homeowner's insurance