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Last updated 3:56AM ET
May 26, 2012
KPLU Local News
KPLU Local News
Green River Dam Leaking, Possible Flood Risk
by Keith Seinfeld, KPLU Science and Health Reporter (2009-06-23)
Howard Hanson Dam in King County. Historylink.org photo
SEATTLE, WA (KPLU) - The dam that prevents flooding from the Green River across much of southern King County is leaking. The leaking appears to be associated with high water levels. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is releasing water from behind Howard Hanson Dam, to lower the level of reservoir. That won't cause any immediate problems. But, if repairs are not successful by November, then the danger of flooding becomes serious for cities such as Auburn, Kent and Tukwila.

The Army Corps expects to have a temporary fix by then, but the exact cause of the water seepage is still unknown. The Corps says there may be erosion inside the earthen portion of the dam. The problem first appeared during a major storm last January, when the river was close to flooding and the reservoir reached its highest level ever.

KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld has the story (click "play" above to hear the story).

Web Extras:

Howard Hanson Dam investigation updates.
More information on flood preparedness in King County.


For a different take on topics of science and health care, check out Keith Seinfeld's KPLU blog.

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Homepage photo courtesy the Seattle Times
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