WSDA advises ag industry to prepare for flooding

Amber Betts
WSDA Communications 

Aerial photograph of flooding in Washington state.

Washington has seen its fair share of wintry weather conditions in recent weeks. Now with warmer temps projected, weather experts forecast significant flooding in areas of Washington. With spring just months away, it is never too late to prepare for more foul weather to come. 

Cold weather and severe storms can affect both animal and human health. When it comes to livestock care, remember that wind chill and prolonged cold increases an animal's need for shelter, food, and water. 

Severe weather and flooding events such as Washington has seen recently have the potential to cause catastrophic loss of life and property, as well as financial, crop, and environmental damage to local communities. Animals may be displaced and need temporary sheltering, feeding, and care. They may also be injured or diseased and need veterinary attention. 

With the forecast for flooding in mind, be sure to check out our 10 tips for flood preparation. When flooding has subsided, remove wet hay from barns as soon as possible to prevent spontaneous hay combustion. 

For additional resources and to stay up-to-date on flooding, storms and other emergency or disaster events, visit:

For overall disaster prep: 

• Natural Disasters and Severe Weather, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

For pets and livestock:

• Floods and Your Livestock, The Center for Food Security and Public Health
• Winter Storms and Your Pets/Livestock, The Center for Food Security and Public Health
• Thunderstorms and Your Pets/Livestock,  The Center for Food Security and Public Health State

Disaster Prep  and county emergency management:

• Washington State Emergency Management Division
• EMD’s twitter
• WA State County / City / Tribal Emergency Coordinators

Prep for veterinarians:

• Disaster Preparedness for Veterinarians, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

Report damage to farms, crops, or livestock to your local U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency Office (USDA FSA). The USDA FSA manages several disaster assistance programs for farmers and ranchers.