Walla Walla & Columbia Counties Begin Recovery from Weekend Flooding
Floodwaters are receding across Walla Walla and Columbia counties after a weekend of heavy rainfall and snowmelt overwhelmed local waterways. While the immediate crisis has passed, recovery efforts are now underway, with officials urging caution and assessing damage to infrastructure.
Touchet River Levels Drop, Safety Concerns Remain
The Touchet River has dropped six feet from its peak, but residents are being advised to exercise extreme caution when returning to flooded properties. The Walla Walla County Department of Community Health has issued safety mandates focused on preventing injury and long-term damage. These include inspecting electrical connections for moisture before restoring power, testing well water for contamination and avoiding the use of septic systems until they’ve been professionally inspected.
Infrastructure Damage and Road Closures
Significant damage to infrastructure is becoming apparent as waters recede. The Seven Mile Bridge remains closed due to road-junction damage on its south side, with emergency access limited to detours via Mill Creek Road and Scenic Loop Road. This bridge, originally damaged in 2020, relies on a temporary WSDOT structure, and full replacement funding remains pending. Lower Hogeye Road at US 12 to the county line has as well been reclosed.
In Waitsburg, standing water persists east of the Highway 12 bridge crossing the Touchet River. The city council is scheduled to discuss the flood’s impact and recovery plans at their meeting on Wednesday evening.
Impact on Local Businesses and Recreation
The flooding has impacted local businesses. The Waitsburg Gun Club sustained an estimated $30,000 in damage after the Touchet River breached near Lower Hogeye Road Bridge, flooding a storage shed with mud.
In Columbia County, Ski Bluewood is assessing road damage caused by the rainfall, and snowmelt. While the resort plans to reopen this Friday, access via Forest Service Road 64 will remain closed to the public until repairs are completed.
Bluewood Road Damage and Access
U.S. Forest Service officials are currently evaluating the extent of the damage to Forest Service Road 64, the primary access route to Ski Bluewood. The closure is necessary to allow crews to safely complete essential repairs before the public can resume access.
FAQ: Flood Recovery in Walla Walla & Columbia Counties
Q: What safety precautions should residents take when returning to flooded properties?
A: Inspect electrical connections, test well water, and avoid using septic systems until professionally inspected.
Q: Is the Seven Mile Bridge open?
A: No, the Seven Mile Bridge remains closed due to damage.
Q: When will Ski Bluewood be accessible by car?
A: The resort plans to reopen this Friday, but Forest Service Road 64 will remain closed to the public until repairs are finished.
Q: Where can I find more information about road closures?
A: Check with Walla Walla County Public Works for the latest updates on road conditions.
Did you know? Sandbags were widely used in Waitsburg to protect homes and businesses, demonstrating the community’s proactive response to the rising floodwaters.
Stay informed about ongoing recovery efforts and road conditions by visiting the Walla Walla County Emergency Management website. Your support and vigilance are crucial as our communities rebuild.
