County establishes 24-hour helpline, requests help to reach unincorporated residents isolated by winter storms

Swaths of unincorporated King County continue to feel the effects of the unprecedented winter storms, which have left several rural communities buried in snow and without power.

The storms have created several challenges, particularly in the east portion of the county, where residents have limited or no road access in or out of their neighborhoods, and where many neighborhoods do not have power.

In coordination with our partners, King County is working to bring additional support and resources to these areas. We have requested National Guard personnel and vehicles, and have ordered additional snow plows.

For unincorporated King County residents who are stuck, and have urgent service needs,  we have established a 24/7 public hotline for residents to communicate non-medical emergency needs, such as help getting to vital appointments: 206-296-3830.

• Only dial 9-1-1 for true emergencies. For non-medical issues, call the King County public hotline at 206-296-3830.
• Stay away from structures that are vulnerable to collapse due to heavy snow load.
• Don’t operate generators indoors or near a door or window; never cook or heat inside with a charcoal or gas grill. Carbon monoxide poisoning can make you ill, or lead to death in some cases.
• Plan for your immediate needs, including food and water, pet and other animal supplies, and batteries for powering flashlight and life-sustaining medical equipment.
• This is the time for neighbors to help neighbors.