Record heat prompts Metro Transit travel advisory

A prediction of record heat is prompting a warning from King County Metro Transit that many customers will find their bus trips very hot as we head into the afternoon hours.

Customers should expect longer trips and crowded buses following the baseball game and afternoon commute. Those trips will be especially uncomfortable if you are traveling on a bus that is not air conditioned.  Only about 30 percent of Metro's bus fleet is equipped with air conditioning.  But even those buses with AC will likely be hot, especially when they are crowded and doors are being opened frequently.

Given the excessive heat warning now in effect, Metro customers may want to consider traveling later in the day when it's cooler and buses aren't as crowded.  Customers with health problems may even want to consider forgoing their bus travel until temperatures moderate.

If you do need to travel during the heat wave, there are some additional tips to keep in mind.  Dress for the weather on these hotter days. Remove jackets and sweaters you wear in air conditioned buildings before you board the bus.  Visit Metro Online and Public Health Seattle-King County for additional hot weather travel tips.