Lewis County opens flood damage hotline as attention begins to focus on recovery

Lewis County has established a dedicated damage assessment hotline for residents whose homes or properties were affected by recent flooding.

Flood-impacted community members are asked to call 360-740-2600 and leave a message that includes their first and last name, phone number and the address of the damaged site. Lewis County will return calls within two business days.

This information will help county staff conduct preliminary damage assessments and connect residents with potential recovery assistance. Lewis County is actively working to collect resources that will help residents as they begin the recovery process.

Many areas remain significantly impacted. Residents returning home should exercise great care and be aware of hazards such as unstable ground, debris, contaminated water and damaged structures.

Health and safety reminders for returning home:

• Do not drink from private wells that may have been flooded. Use bottled water until the well has been tested and cleared.

• Assume all flood water is contaminated. Avoid direct contact when possible.

• If resident’s water systems have been impacted, disinfect tap water before use by boiling for one minute.

• Do not use septic systems if the drainfield or area around the tank is still saturated.

• Reduce water use in the home until the system has time to recover.

• If sewage backs up into the home, keep people and pets away from the affected area and begin cleanup as soon as it is safe.

• Wear gloves, boots and eye protection while cleaning.

• Remove all items soaked by flood water. Porous items such as carpet, insulation and upholstered furniture should be discarded.

• Wash hard surfaces with soap and clean water, then disinfect with a bleach solution (1 cup of bleach to 5 gallons of water).

• Allow all areas to fully dry before starting repairs.

In a news release, Lewis County thanked residents for their patience and resilience during the flooding event. For more information about returning home safely, continue checking the December 2025 Flood Event webpage at https://tinyurl.com/ymzrr6ck. Staff will continue to add documents and links to resources to assist in recovery efforts.