News from King County Department of Transportation
Release date:  Dec. 18, 2008 - 3:30 p.m.

Major snow producing big travel problems

Metro bus service severely reduced; county roads hazardous

A major winter storm that moved into the area just before the morning commute continues to pound King County this afternoon, as Metro Transit struggles to keep service going and Road Services Division crews work to keep roads open.

Up to six inches or more of snow has fallen in King County communities since this morning. The heavy snow produced a variety of impacts, from canceled trips and abandon vehicles to long waits at some bus stops. And looking to this evening, the situation doesn’t look much better. Sub-freezing temperatures could cause slush and snow to freeze solid, making travel, whether it be by bus or car, even more challenging.

King County Metro Transit has canceled or severely reduced service on many of its bus routes this afternoon and evening. Approximately half of Metro’s and Sound Transit’s bus service in King County will be in operation for the rest of the day.

Please see Metro Online for specific route cancellations and reductions.

Bus passengers should be aware that travel conditions can change quickly, and this list may be revised at any time due to weather and road conditions. In some locations, where roads are impassable for large buses, Metro will be operating chained shuttles.

In order to safely transport as many passengers as possible, Metro is focusing on providing bus service on cleared highways and arterial roads, and to major transit centers and park-and-ride lots. This transit plan will continue until weather and road conditions improve, which means almost all bus service will be significantly limited.

Meanwhile road crews, working 12-hour shifts to maintain around-the-clock operations since last weekend, have spent yet another day plowing and sanding. The snow has fallen so hard at times that crews have had to plow and sand some roads multiple times just to keep them passable.

While most roads have remained open since the storm began, there have been some problem spots. The Roads Division currently reports six roads closed due to icy conditions. And about 50 vehicles were abandon this morning on Novelty Hill Road near Redmond. That has made snow removal operations extremely difficult as trucks have tried to maneuver around the cars. Steep plateau areas and East King County communities such as Woodinville, Duvall and Carnation have been especially hard hit.

Given this long stretch of the bad weather, the Road Services Division has also had to replenish its salt and sand supplies. King County solid waste crews have assisted the roads division with deliveries to road maintenance field offices.

As we head into the afternoon commute, motorists should be prepared to encounter additional bands of snow moving through the area and slick roads that will likely get even more treacherous after sunset, as temperatures continue to fall. And road maintenance supervisors are warning that the effects of this storm may keep roads slick well into the weekend, further trying the patience of motorists.

King County continues to urge residents to be well prepared when they travel. Motorists should drive slowly and cautiously, since it is very difficult to spot black ice on roadways. Bus passengers should be familiar with snow routes that may affect their scheduled trip and their boarding location. All commuters should dress warmly when heading out and expect slow going, no matter what mode of travel they’re using.

Motorists are reminded of these safety tips:

• Allow ample time to reach your destination;
• Equip your vehicle with all-season tires and carry tire chains;
• If you must abandon your vehicle, park it clear of travel lanes to allow sanding trucks to get through. Cars left in travel lanes may be towed and impounded;
• Dress for the weather in case you become stranded and have to walk;
• Use caution when following a snowplow or sander by allowing at least two car lengths distance; and caution children about the dangers of sledding on hilly streets.
  Residents are also encouraged to report problems on roads in unincorporated King County by calling (206) 296-8100, or 1-800-KC ROADS if they live outside the greater Seattle calling area.