Residents and visitors in Seattle are being alerted to a highly unusual and unsettling potential consequence of the recent heavy rainfall and flooding. Public health authorities have issued a warning that rats, displaced by flooded sewers, could unexpectedly appear in household toilets.
Why Are Rats Coming Up Through Toilets?
Public Health – Seattle & King County has clarified the chain of events leading to this bizarre scenario. Intense rain and flooding disrupt the natural habitats of rodents, washing them into storm drains and extensive sewer lines. Rats, particularly sewer rats, are remarkably strong swimmers and adept at navigating confined spaces.
When sewer systems become overwhelmed with rainwater, the resulting pressure changes can create a pathway. This can allow these resilient rodents to move upward through plumbing networks and potentially emerge through the water in toilet bowls. For travellers staying in hotels or rental accommodations after a storm, this could be a particularly shocking discovery.
Official Step-by-Step Guidance if You Encounter a Toilet Rat
Health officials stress that while the phenomenon is rare, it is not impossible during extreme weather. Their primary advice is to stay calm and follow clear, practical steps. Do not panic.
The first and most crucial action is to immediately close the toilet lid. This simple step prevents the animal from escaping into the bathroom or living area. Once the lid is securely closed, flush the toilet. Officials note that it may require several flushes to send the rat back down the drain.
If flushing alone proves ineffective, a specific household item can help: add liquid dish soap into the toilet bowl. The soap can reduce surface tension and help the rodent slip down the drain more easily. Authorities strongly warn against attempting to remove the animal by hand due to risks of bites, scratches, and exposure to diseases carried by rodents.
Safety Precautions for Residents and Travellers
In the event the rat escapes the toilet, the guidance is to contain it in a room if possible and then use a trap. Those uncomfortable with handling the situation should contact a professional pest control service immediately. As a preventive measure, keeping toilet lids closed when not in use is recommended.
For travellers, especially those in areas recently hit by storms, awareness is key. If such an incident occurs in a hotel or rental property, experts advise informing the property management or hotel staff right away. They are equipped to handle the situation safely and professionally.
While the idea is alarming, officials emphasize that the situation is manageable with calm and correct actions. By following the provided instructions, a startling encounter can be resolved safely, turning a potential travel horror story into a controlled incident.
