Flooding is nothing new to Snohomish. With its riverfront location and historic charm, the city faces seasonal risks from high water levels, especially in low-lying areas like the downtown historic district. While water damage is often the first concern after a flood, what many property owners don’t realize is the lingering threat of biohazard contamination.

What Makes Floodwater Dangerous?
Not all water is equal. When floodwaters rise in Snohomish—whether from the Snohomish River, storm surges, or sewer overflows—they often carry more than just rain. These waters can contain:
- Sewage and waste from combined stormwater and sewer systems, common in older neighborhoods
- Hazardous chemicals washed from roads, garages, or nearby properties
- Pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and parasites, harmful to humans and pets
This mixture of contaminants is considered a Category 3 water event (also known as “black water”), requiring professional biohazard remediation to ensure safety.

Why Snohomish Is Especially at Risk
Snohomish’s blend of old and new construction adds complexity to flood response. The historic downtown area—while beautiful and full of character—often includes century-old infrastructure, aging sewer systems, and porous materials like wood and brick that can trap harmful contaminants. In these structures, floodwaters don’t just soak the floors; they seep into walls, crawlspaces, and HVAC systems.
Additionally, about 5% of Snohomish properties lie within a designated floodplain, and that number is increasing as erosion and extreme weather patterns worsen. The aftermath of a flood in this environment demands more than a mop and bucket.
Health Risks of Delayed or Improper Cleanup
Attempting to clean up flood damage without the proper equipment or training can lead to:
- Mold growth in hidden or untreated areas
- Airborne pathogens spreading through vents
- Cross-contamination of clean areas with biohazardous material
- Long-term structural damage that weakens your property
These risks aren’t just theoretical. They’re real threats that can compromise your health and your property value.
What Professional Biohazard Cleanup Involves
At PuroClean of Snohomish, we follow strict industry protocols for flood-related biohazard remediation:
- Assessment and containment to stop cross-contamination
- Removal of contaminated materials, including flooring, drywall, and insulation
- Sanitization and disinfection using EPA-approved agents
- Air filtration and deodorization to remove lingering health threats and odors
- Moisture control and mold prevention to protect your property long term
Our technicians are trained, certified, and compassionate—ready to respond 24/7 to protect your family, tenants, or customers.

Protecting Your Piece of Snohomish
Whether you own a vintage storefront on First Street or a modern family home near Dutch Hill, flooding in Snohomish isn’t just about the water you can see. It’s about the invisible threats it leaves behind.
If your property has been impacted by flooding or sewage backups, don’t take chances with DIY cleanup. Call PuroClean of Snohomish for expert, respectful biohazard remediation that restores safety and peace of mind.