Don’t put those tire chains and snow tires away just yet.
Forecasts indicate snow could hit many areas of Washington later today (Wednesday) with the evening commute prime time for snow and ice. The mountain passes and Spokane could be especially hard hit, with up to 15 inches of snow expected overnight on Snoqualmie Pass. Drivers need to prepare for winter driving conditions all over the state, plan ahead and take precautions.
Weather reports this morning say the snow could be hit and miss. Before you go, check the WSDOT website and local media reports
“They are telling us to prepare for ‘surprise squalls,’ said Chris Christopher, WSDOT Director of Maintenance Operations. “This means drivers could experience clear conditions one minute and then stormy winter conditions the next. Combined with the possibility for freezing rain and evening commute traffic, the potential exists for icy roadways.”
WSDOT crews will be watching weather reports very closely all day and will be ready to respond. Drivers should be prepared, slow down and carry chains through the mountains and Eastern Washington.
Drivers who are ready for the weather and drive safely help WSDOT and themselves. One spin-out can block traffic for hours and cause additional incidents. And, clearing incidents can also take our crews away from road-clearing activities.
Drivers should be prepared, carry chains, slow down and schedule extra time to reach your destination safely. Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady spots. These all have potential to develop black ice that makes driving hazardous.
Know Before you go:
• Get information from our Web site at www.wsdot.wa.gov before you leave your home or office.
• 511 – This driver information phone line provides current traffic, incident and closure information. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388. Out-of-state callers can access the information at call 1-800-695-ROAD (7623).
• Mountain pass conditions are available at www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes/.
• At www.wsdot.wa.gov/winter, drivers can find WSDOT’s winter driving-related information, including preparing a vehicle for winter driving, safe driving tips and mountain pass travel advisories. The WSDOT winter site also offers information about chains, winter tires and how WSDOT maintenance crews work in winter weather.
• On WSDOT’s website, www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/weather, drivers can look roadway temperatures and see camera images from across the state.
• At www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/trafficalerts, a map shows highway incidents and closures.
• Sign up for news at www.wsdot.wa.gov/emailupdates/. WSDOT offers subscribers more than 25 specialized e-mail alerts, including news and information for freight haulers, construction related traffic revisions, project updates from all around the state, and timely updates on pass conditions.
• Twitter users can add WSDOT to their personal accounts at: http://twitter.com/wsdot/. Go to www.wsdot.wa.gov/inform/twitter for more details.
On the Road:
• Overhead and roadside electronic signs •Highway advisory radio – WSDOT advises drivers to program 530AM and 1610AM on your radio.
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