Nightmare alert.
Washington health officials warned residents that heavy rain and floodwater could sweep rats into the sewer systems and up into their … well … toilets!
The Seattle and King County public health department issued the warning Thursday on Facebook.
“The heavy rain and floodwaters may sweep rodents into the sewer systems,” the post said. “If a rat visits your toilet, take a deep breath and follow these tips,” it added, along with infographics outlining what to do if a rat appears in your commode.
The infographics instruct residents to stay calm, close the toilet lid and flush. If the rat is still there, they should pour dish soap into the toilet and flush the toilet again until the rat is gone.
Washington this month faced a deluge of historic flooding, which caused extensive damage to roads and other infrastructure.
Kate Reilly is a news associate with NBC News.