Snohomish County Disaster Recovery Framework (November 2020)

On March 22, 2014, Snohomish County experienced the deadliest most complex disaster in the history of the county. The SR 530 Flooding and Mudslide (SR 530 Slide) incident dramatically changed the recovery concept of the county. 43 lives were lost, 35 homes destroyed, and impacts from flooding altered the terrain.

Prior to the SR 530 Slide, Snohomish County had initiated a conscious planning effort for recovery from a catastrophic disaster. This incident clearly identified the need for jurisdictions to plan for a “focused” and catastrophic disaster recovery. The situation also highlighted the value of a flexible recovery “framework” rather than a plan.

The Snohomish County Disaster Recovery Framework (Framework) is very much informed by experienced gained in recovery from the SR 530 Slide incident, incorporating lessons learned, best practices, and recommendations for a flexible, scalable recovery process from a local or regional, focused or catastrophic disaster.