While Federal Way wasn’t hit too hard in the winter rain storm and flooding earlier this week, that doesn’t mean that the city did not feel the impact.

Areas surrounding Federal Way, as well as some of the lower areas were hit by flooding, and Western Washington was effectively cut off, as floods closed I-5 and all mountain passes.

Some roads in Federal Way were also closed due to flooding and in one case a sinkhole near Dash Point Road.

The state has also closed more then a dozen Puget Sound shellfish areas due to contaminated rivers and is advising recreational harvesters not to harvest oysters or clams for at least a week.

The State Department of Health is also working with water systems to ensure that drinking water is safe. The department will issue advisories if water needs to be boiled.

For those on private wells, the department advises watching the well carefully and if it floods assume the water is unsafe.

If your home is flooded, the state recommends turning off the utilities until emergency officials tell you it’s safe to turn back on. Avoid weakened floors, walls and rooftops. After floodwaters recede mold should be cleaned as soon as possible.