Mudslide blocks Cedar River flow | Maple Valley Fire and Life Safety
Published 10:04 pm Saturday, May 10, 2014
At approximately 10:00 am, firefighters of Maple Valley Fire and Life Safety were dispatched to a report of a mudslide in the 21300 block of 221 Ave. SE.
Firefighters found that the mudslide had completely blocked the flow of water in the Cedar River and had forced the river over its banks and through private property. Fortunately the area is semi-rural and only six homes and one additional property were affected. Maple Valley firefighters checked with residents in the area to ensure that everyone was safe.
The water receded once the river had cut a path through the slide and returned to the river bed. Minor flooding was reported in the area of the homes and there were no reports of any injuries.
The slide area is approximately 300 feet high and 300 feet across at the base. The hillside was covered in various sized trees from scrub brush to 30 – 40 foot fir trees.
The King County Sheriff’s office is closing the Cedar River between Highway 18 at the Renton Maple Valley Road and Maxwell Road to all activities due to the continued danger of additional slides.
A geologist from the state has been requested to assess the damage.
The King County Sheriff’s Office is now taking over the scene. Any further media inquiries should be directed to them.
