A wet afternoon followed by freezing overnight temperatures are a recipe for icy roads, which require extra precaution by drivers. According to the National Weather Service, lows in the Snoqualmie Valley are predicted to make it down to the mid-20’s tonight.
King County Road crews, as well as the City of Snoqualmie, are preparing. City of Snoqualmie Public Information Officer, Joan Pliego, said, “City crews will follow our standard practice for snow and ice removal as needed for the safety of the community. Our Streets & Storm Division employees are available around the clock and respond very quickly when needs arise.”
To view Snoqualmie’s Snow and Ice Removal Plan (including priority streets) click HERE. To view the Snow and Ice Removal Plan for unincorporated King County click HERE.
King County is also beefing up its response to ice and snow on roadways this afternoon as temperatures continue to drop throughout the county. While no widespread snow is being reported, isolated snow/hail showers have been occurring in many parts of the county this afternoon. Heading into the nighttime hours, ice build-up on already damp roadways will become an even greater concern as temperatures continue to fall.
Given the forecast, King County has put extra crews on the road to combat snow and ice. As many as 12 trucks will be out this evening and will remain on duty throughout the night. In addition to anti-icing operations, crews will be sanding roads and plowing slush or snow when necessary.
Given the forecast, motorists should use extreme caution while traveling until temperatures warm and conditions improve. Remember, major arterials are a major priority for snow and ice removal. Roads in the higher hilltop areas in addition to bridges, overpasses and less traveled roadways can be particularly slippery when temperatures dip below freezing.
If you spot a problem on a roadway maintained by the County, report it by calling (206) 296-8100 or 1 -800 KC ROADS.
