King County

Gov. Bob Ferguson told Washingtonians to brace for a lengthy recovery, and announced $3.5 million in state assistance for short-term needs such as groceries and hotel stays.

King County leaders are urging the public to pay attention to warnings, evacuation orders and to mind barricades and road closure signs.

An evacuation order from King County covered homes and businesses east of the Green River in parts of Tukwila, Renton and Kent.

Outlining his priorities, Zahilay spoke of breaking the cycle of addiction and homelessness, building more affordable housing and improving government. He said that will mean getting out in the community more with “boots on the ground.”

The county has until the end of June 2026 to pay for Harbor Island Studios without money from the general fund.

Girmay Zahilay takes office as the new King County executive on Tuesday. His reorganization plans for certain executive offices are already causing concern.

In just two weeks, King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay will become the boss of more than 18,000 county employees.

Girmay Zahilay, chair of the King County Council, had 53.2% of the vote as of Friday afternoon after a tight race against fellow councilmember Claudia Balducci.

Another round of results released Thursday showed Girmay Zahilay widening his lead over Claudia Balducci in the race for King County executive.

The two finalists are both county councilmembers: Girmay Zahilay from South Seattle and Claudia Balducci of Bellevue.