Heavy rain overnight partially collapses roof of Kent business; damages another

Kent firefighters responded to two Kent businesses early Wednesday morning after heavy rains caused damage to the buildings and one partial roof collapse.

No one was injured in either incident.

Both businesses were within 1/4 mile of each other and the calls were dispatched almost simultaneously shortly after midnight Sept. 8, according to a Kent Fire Department media release.

A building in the 8200 block of South 212th Street had a partial roof collapse. No one was in the building at the time and the damage was limited to a wing of the large concrete tilt-up warehouse.

Firefighters were dispatched to the location due to a sprinkler water flow alarm. That type of alarm activates automatically when a sprinkler system begins flowing water. The alarm was caused by the collapsing roof damaging a portion of the sprinkler system.

When firefighters arrived, they discovered the roof damage and extensive amounts of water throughout the business.

Firefighters determined that the building was safe to enter before investigating the collapse and quickly found that no one was in the damaged area. Working with a company representative, firefighters were able to shut off power and water to that portion of the building. They also confirmed that no hazardous materials or other dangers were present.

Workers started the cleanup process Wednesday morning. A city of Kent building official was on location to determine whether the building was safe for occupation.

The second building in the 20600 block of 84th Avenue South suffered water damage when rainwater entered the two-story office structure through a roof that was under construction or renovation.

Workers in an adjacent building discovered the water in the offices and called 911 for assistance. Firefighters helped employees by covering up computer systems, files, and other valuables so they could be safely removed afterwards. No one was injured.

Kent Fire Department officials said as the rainy season begins home and business owners should check gutter systems and ensure that they are clear of debris that might prevent water from draining properly, causing damage to the building.

In addition, the recent rainfall has left large standing pools of water on roadways. Fire officials advised to never drive through water covering streets due to the danger of vehicles stalling and possibly flooding. Obey all emergency street signs indicating that streets are closed due to flooding and drive with care.

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