Washington Residents Face New Threat: “Toilet Rats” After Historic Floods
FOX Weather Meteorologist Steve Bender is joined by FOX 13 Seattle Meteorologist Claire Anderson to analyze another active threat in Washington just after an historic flood event swamped the state last week.
Seattle and King County public health officials issued a warning on Thursday that the recent heavy rain and floodwaters from the back-to-back atmospheric rivers may have swept rodents into the cities’ sewage system.
Warning: What to Do If You Encounter a “Toilet Rat”
The department posted a cartoon on social media providing tips on what residents should do if they happen to find the pesky vermin in their toilet.
Seattle and King County Public Health Department released a cartoon on how to handle toilet rats. They recommend staying calm during the event.
(Seattle and King County Public Health Department / FOX Weather)
“The heavy rain and floodwaters may sweep rodents into the sewer systems. If a rat visits your toilet, take a deep breath and follow these tips,” officials said in the Facebook post.
They suggest if a homeowner does have a run-in with a rat, to stay calm, shut the toilet and try to flush the rodent.
If that does not work, squirt dish soap into the toilet. The soap will help slide the rat down the septic system when flushed. It may take a few times before the creature is gone.
Seattle and King County Health Department released a cartoon on how to handle toilet rats. They recommend using soap to make the rat slide down the toilet when flushing.
(Seattle and King County Health Department)
Aftermath of Historic Floods
For days, Washington experienced record-breaking flooding from multiple atmospheric rivers that slammed the region.
Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate from their homes as floodwaters seeped in.
Entire areas have been completely submerged as major river flooding slams parts of Washington state.
(Snohomish Regional Fire and Rescue)
Infrastructure throughout the state, including major highways, bridges and entire communities were destroyed.
It is expected that it will take several weeks to determine the extent of the damage.
Read more about the situation in Washington and the warning about “toilet rats” Here
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