PUBLIC HEALTH INSIDER

Official insights from Public Health – Seattle & King County staff

How drowning risk is different since the 2025 floods: What you need to know before heading to the river

June 1, 2026.Reading time 8 minutes.

A forested river channel with flowing water and large fallen trees scattered across the stream and gravel bars. The logs form natural woody debris piles surrounded by dense green vegetation. “KING COUNTY DNRP” appears in the upper right corner.

After the 2025 floods reshaped many local rivers, currents, channels, and underwater hazards look different this summer. Cold water and hidden debris make drowning risks higher than people expect. A life jacket and a few simple choices can keep you and your family safer on the water.

It’s swimming season! Answers to your top questions about beach closures & reopenings

May 21, 2026.Reading time 7 minutes.

There’s nothing quite like relaxing on a beach by the lake in the summertime. Here in King County, we’re lucky to have dozens of great beaches to choose from, and the Lake Swimming Beach Program works hard to make sure the water is safe for people to swim.