How to Prepare for Winter Storms

Winter weather in Seattle and King County can make travel unpredictable.  The intensity of a single snow and ice storm can vary significantly throughout the region because of the Puget Sound area's unique weather patterns.

The time of day the snow strikes also will influence winter travel.  Even an inch of snow can make commuting a nightmare.

It doesn’t have to be that way.....

The Seattle/ King County area averages at least one significant snowfall annually.

The next time it happens, be ready.

Plan ahead.

Use transit whenever possible. Pick up transit timetables containing information on snow routes and plan to commute by bus in bad weather.  Bus snow reroutes are also posted on Metro’s web site.

Identify the best snow route home with the fewest hills possible.  Remember, freeways, major arterials and bus routes are your best bets for winter travel.

Develop an emergency plan with your family to identify where each member should go if getting home is not possible because of snow conditions.  Make sure there are provisions — food, blankets — at your contingency location.

Familiarize yourself with school, daycare and employer snow policies.

Make sure you have a battery-operated radio and flashlight at home in case the power fails.

Winterize your vehicle.

Make sure your car and tires are in good condition and maintain a full tank of gas.  Store blankets, a bag of sand, shovel, window scraper, flares, and warm clothes in the trunk.  Also carry a set of properly sized tire chains in your vehicle — and learn how to put them on!

Schools

Listen to local radio and television stations for information on school closures and schedule changes.  Please be sure to retain the snow and ice information that your local school distributes.

For a recorded message on Seattle School District schedule changes, call 206-252-0207.

Power Outages

Seattle City Light - 206-684-7400 for a recorded list of power outage areas. If your area is not listed, let City Light know.

Puget Sound Energy - 1-888-225-5773

When the Storm Strikes

When the snow begins to fall, road conditions can deteriorate very quickly.  Traveling by bus is often your best commuting option.  The best place to catch the bus is along major arterials.  Wait at the top or bottom of hills.  Check your timetable for snow routes.  Remember, buses will be more crowded than usual and not always on schedule.

Keep in mind, it is the responsibility of the property owner to keep sidewalks clear of snow and ice.

Do not sled on roads and streets.  

Drive only if necessary.

Consider this before deciding to drive in snow conditions: snow and ice disrupt routine traffic patterns, often causing increased congestion countywide. Differences in elevation can make winter driving in this region particularly hazardous. A normal half-hour commute easily can become several hours. Plan for snow and ice, consider the alternatives to driving, and avoid becoming part of the problem.

If you must drive, consider a carpool and follow your winter travel plan. Take your time and listen to local radio stations for the latest road conditions and traffic reports. Local broadcast stations are your best sources for up-to-date weather information.

Don’t follow closely behind snow-fighting trucks.

If you must abandon your vehicle, pull as far off the road as possible. Abandoned vehicles make the job of clearing snow and ice from roads nearly impossible and can create problems for other motorists.

In the Aftermath

Depending on the severity of the snow, it may take several hours to several days for life to return to normal in the city and county.  In the aftermath of the storm, be patient, self-sufficient and travel only if it's absolutely necessary.

• Continue to rely on public transit whenever possible.
• Dress warmly and be prepared for delays in bus schedules.
• If you must drive, stick to your winter travel plan.  Remember, snow removal crews will clear major arterials, highways and bus routes before other roads in Seattle and King County.
• Expect continued power and service disruptions.

Snow and ice storms affect everyone including service providers. Despite improving weather conditions you may continue to experience disruptions in service such as power and garbage/recycling collection after the storm has passed. Listen to the radio for updates on key services.