This story has been updated. Please check KirklandReporter.com for the latest information on the 2008 Winter Storms
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for Western Washington Dec. 16 that is in effect from late tonight until Thursday morning. Forecasters are predicting one to three inches of snow is possible in the Eastside. Kirkland residents and businesses are encouraged to prepare for this storm and for the winter weather season. King County and city road maintenance crews are ready with sanders and snow plows to commence 24 hour operations should the weather warrant.
Public Transit
King County Metro Transit is planning on chaining most of its buses for the Wednesday morning commute, and warns bus riders that service could be delayed by the weather conditions throughout the day – particularly in outlying areas of East and Southeast King County. Many buses may be on snow routing, if not for the morning commute then by midday and late afternoon. Metro may have to switch to snow routes in some locations with little notice. So, the best way to stay on top of the reroutes is to check the adverse weather information on Metro Online, or call the Customer Information Office at 206-553-3000.
Winter Driving
In anticipation of the storm, the King County Road Services Division, which has been operating around-the-clock since Saturday, is applying anti-icer to major arterials, bridges and arterials located on steep hills. The division will also remain on 24-hour operations to plow and sand. If snow falls in Kirkland, local trucks and plows will give first priority to roads that are near Evergreen Hospital and lead to and from I-405, transit routes, schools and fire stations. Second priority will be given to arterials that have above normal traffic use. Steep and hilly public roadways that are difficult to maintain will be closed. Kirkland’s Snow Plow Priority Routes map can be found here or by visiting the city’s Web site, www.ci.kirkland.wa.us. Drivers are encouraged to stay off the roadways in hazardous snow or ice conditions.
In the event of using a vehicle in sub-freezing conditions, drivers are advised to stock their vehicle with basic safety equipment such as jumper cables, ice scraper, tow chains, tire chains and a small shovel. Vehicles should also have road flares, blankets, gloves, warm clothing, flashlights with batteries and a first aid kit. Planning ample time to reach your destination and keep your gas tank full is also recommended. To report hazardous road conditions in Kirkland city limits, call 425-587-3800, Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. or call 425-587-3400 after hours. Residents in unincorporated King County are encouraged to call (206) 296-8100.
Personal Preparedness & Home Safety
Citizens and businesses are reminded to have emergency supplies for home, work and vehicles. Citizens should have their plans ready including food, water, alternative shelter, a land-line telephone, transistor/battery-operated radio and other tools that can help them respond to an emergency.
The American Red Cross encourages residents to check on their neighbors who have special needs, such as disabled persons and seniors.
Remember to use alternate heat sources safely and wisely. Follow manufacturers’ instructions. Adequately vent fueled space heaters (e.g. kerosene, propane, alcohol) to avoid fatal carbon monoxide gas buildup. Do not use outdoor grills or camp stoves indoors as they may cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
City Emergency Public Information
Emergency public information will be made available on the City’s website at www.ci.kirkland.wa.us/emergency, recorded to the 24-hour emergency hotline at 425-587-3767, posted to KGOV Channel 21 and KLIFE Channel 75 and emailed via the Neighborhood EBulletin. To subscribe to the e-bulletin, go to the City’s website and click on the “Kirkland Email Alerts” icon. City recreation programs will be cancelled per Lake Washington School District’s school cancellation policy. To receive regional emergency news alerts, subscribe to the Regional Public Information Network (RPIN) at www.rpin.org.