Urban flooding on Capitol Campus affects campus buildings, garages and walkways

OLYMPIA – The Department of Enterprise Services has called in additional staff through Saturday to address issues with urban flooding on the Capitol Campus due to high volumes of rain.

DES is collaborating with the City of Olympia to prioritize response needs and mitigate impacts.

People are being asked to immediately report any flooding related issues on the campus to (360) 725-0000.


Water leaking into the a room of the State Archives Building.

Situation update

DES crews have:

  • Cleared the majority of drains on campus that had backups causing water to flow onto walkways and surface areas.
  • Relocated cars from an area that is leaking in the P3 level of the NRB Garage.
  • Been taking ongoing action to address:
    • Roof or wall leaks at the Department of Transportation, Capitol Court, and Washington Street buildings.
    • Clogged drains along Deschutes Parkway that are causing flooding.
    • A loss of power in the Department of Licensing data room.
    • Flooding in the basement of the Governor’s Mansion caused by a failed drain.

In addition, crews have been addressing issues related to back-ups in the Olympia stormwater system. They are working along with the Olympia Fire Department and other responders to:

  • Prevent water from affecting the State Data Center.
  • Pump water out of the Archives Building, where a first floor vault is flooding.
  • Remove water from:
    • the tunnel between the John L. O’Brien and John A. Cherberg Buildings.
    • a utility room in the O’ Brien Building.
    • a custodial room in the Cherberg Building.

Capitol Lake preparation

Capitol Lake flooding may occur tomorrow if rains continue as forecast. DES crews are taking steps to ready for a response, including staging materials in the area such as sandbags.

DES crews also are coordinating their efforts with the City of Olympia crews to reduce risk for any potential downtown flooding.

If flooding occurs, Capitol Lake and Heritage Park will be partially or completely closed. DES is asking people to be careful as they commute and do business around the lake.