Washington state officials warn of toilet rats after floods: ‘Try to stay calm’

Following recent floods in Washington state, officials have issued warnings about the presence of 'toilet rats,' a rare but concerning phenomenon. The Guardian reports on the situation, emphasizing the need for calm and caution among residents. The article was published on December 23, 2025.

This warning matters because it highlights a public health concern arising from flooding, which can disrupt sanitation systems and increase human-wildlife interactions. Residents in affected areas, including Seattle, are directly impacted by these unusual occurrences.

Officials' advice to stay calm aims to prevent panic while addressing the issue through appropriate public health measures. The situation underscores the broader challenges of managing urban wildlife and infrastructure resilience amid climate-related events.