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October 20, 2009
The Port of Seattle has conducted an ongoing review and associated preparations of operational impacts from Green River flooding due to water releases from the Howard Hanson Dam.
Today, the port moved to proactively lease back-up electric generators, fuel, and other necessities to ensure Sea-Tac International Airport is able to operate in the event of Green River flooding.
The need for this action stems from the Puget Sound Energy substation that provides electricity to the airport is located in the Green River flood area; in the event flood level water is released from Howard Hanson Dam, the substation could be prevented from providing electricity for days, weeks, or longer.
Sea-Tac International Airport is a key component of the region’s critical infrastructure and provides 24 hour transportation for people, goods and services, and potential aid in and out of the region. Especially in the event of a regional emergency, it is vital that the airport remains fully operational.
To provide port staff the necessary authority to secure this back-up power capability in time for potential flooding this winter, Port CEO Tay Yoshitani has announced a Declaration of Emergency as provided for by Resolution 3605, which governs how commission authority is delegated to the CEO. The declaration ensures that port staff members are authorized to move quickly to keep facilities safe and operating.