Power interruption from nearby lightning strike causes West Seattle pump station wastewater overflow

February 14, 2023

Summary

A Seattle City Light power interruption caused Barton Pump Station in West Seattle to briefly overflow Monday. King County workers responded quickly and reset the pump station within minutes of the overflow. The station is now back online and operating normally. Cove Beach and Lincoln Park Beach are temporarily closed.

Story

King County Wastewater Treatment Division workers quickly responded Monday night when a power disruption interrupted operations at the Barton Pump Station in West Seattle.  

Seattle City Light determined that the power quality problems were caused by lightning. County crews quickly brought the pumps back online and the overflow stopped. The pump station, located at 8617 Fauntleroy Way SW in West Seattle, is next to Lincoln Park and Cove Beach.  
 
Out of an abundance of caution, county crews posted closure signs at Cove Beach and Lincoln Park Beach until water quality testing confirms the water is safe. King County reported the overflow to health and regulatory agencies and will continue to inform the public.  

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: 
Marie Fiore, Wastewater Treatment Division, 206-263-0284