Residents of Puyallup who have been on high alert can breathe a sigh of relief, as the Puyallup Police Department announced this morning that all evacuation orders stemming from recent flooding have been lifted. The notification, posted on their official Facebook page, informed the community that, as of 7:30 AM yesterday, December 12, it was safe for evacuees to return to their homes. Acknowledging the efforts of the city during a state of emergency, the department expressed thankfulness for the residents' cooperation and the outpouring of support.
While the immediate danger has passed and residents start to repopulate the quiet streets of their neighborhoods, the Riverwalk Trail remains closed. City crews are tasked with assessing the extent of the flood damage and the subsequent necessary repairs—a process that is expected to require patience and time. In the statement obtained by Facebook, the Puyallup Police Department said: "The Riverwalk Trail will remain closed until further notice to assess damage and repairs. This is expected to take some time by our city crews."
The police department's social media post did not simply announce the lifting of evacuations—it also served as a testament to the community's strength and unity. Using the hashtag #PuyallupStrong, the Puyallup Police Department publicized their appreciation for both the public's aid and the faultless performance of the city staff during "a very serious incident for our community." They underlined the collective resilience and spirit of cooperation that aided in managing the situation with greater ease.
Such community-focused messages reflect an understanding of the challenges faced and the shared commitment to rebuilding and recovery following natural disasters. Despite the progress, the department reminds citizens that for those affected by the evacuations and in need of assistance, a Call Center remains operational and can be reached at 253-864-4170.
