The National Weather Service issued the following Advisory Wed. morning about potential snow showers coming tonight/Thursday:

Statement as of 4:21 AM PST on February 25, 2009

… Local snow showers are expected over the western Washington lowlands late tonight and Thursday…

A cooler air mass will move into western Washington tonight… and it will be cold enough for showers to fall locally as snow or rain and snow mixed across the western Washington lowlands late tonight and Thursday.

Widespread snow accumulations are not expected… and high temperatures Thursday will reach the lower to mid 40s. However spotty accumulations of 1 or 2 inches are possible mainly in the northwest interior… along Hood Canal… and in the southwest interior late tonight or Thursday morning.

So be prepared…ol’ man winter might be making one final appearance!

More info/links:

• National Weather Service Weather Discussion Page
• Cliff Mass’ Weather Blog

Somewhat surprising that it’s actually snowing in Burien now, and the National Weather Service has issued this Advisory:

… Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 6 PM PST this evening…

Along the I-5 corridor of King… Pierce… Thurston and Lewis counties…1 to 3 inches of snow accumulation is expected.

Heaviest snowfall will occur over the Kitsap peninsula west of Puget Sound… where 2 to 4 inches of accumulation is expected in the Bremerton area.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow… sleet… or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads and limited visibilities… and use caution while driving.

For our area, they’re calling for:

• Snow accumulation between 1 and 4 inches, contiuing tonight, with temps in the upper 30s.
• Snow decreasing overnight. Snow accumulation up to one inch. Lows in the upper 20s to lower 30s. Southeast wind 10 to 15 mph.
• Mostly cloudy. A chance of morning showers. Highs in the lower to mid 40s. North wind near 10 mph.

No word yet on school closures for Wednesday, but stay tuned for updates – we’ll post ‘em as we get ‘em (that is, as long as our Server holds out and the site stays online…).

At 3:24pm Monday Jan. 5th, the National Weather Service issued the following Flood Watch Advisory:

… Flood Watch in effect from Tuesday evening through Friday afternoon…

Rain will fall over western Washington beginning Tuesday afternoon and continuing into Thursday. Rain will be heavy at times in the mountains… along the coast… and over the southwest interior and lower Chehalis valley. The Cascades and Olympics will get 5-10 inches with some southwest facing slopes 15-20 inches. Perhaps 6 inches will fall on the coast and SW interior. The Seattle area could see 4 inches over the two days and northern lowland areas will get an inch or two.

This sums to a real flood potential… both for river flooding and urban and small stream flooding. This flooding will be driven by heavy rain that has been consistently present in numerical models. Some flooding seems certain… and major flooding is possible on some rivers.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

Monitor weather forecasts in case conditions change. If you live near a river… prepare for flooding now.

There are plenty of creeks and streams in the Burien area, so be sure to check for clear drains and clogs if you live or work near one.

Just when you thought that 2008 couldn’t get any worse as far as winter weather goes comes this new Advisory about another “strong storm” that could blow away your New Year’s Eve hangover this Thursday and Friday:

… Another strong storm could potentially bring windy weather to parts of western Washington Thursday through Friday…

A strong storm system is expected to arrive in two parts Thursday and Thursday night bringing a threat of heavy Rain… Mountain snow… and possibly high winds to parts of western Washington. National Weather Service computer models continue to indicate a high degree of uncertainty regarding the strength and track of the incoming weather system. Latest models have trended toward a weaker surface low tracking into the far south or central Washington coast… and due eastward across the south or central sound. At this time it appears a southern track is more likely… putting the area at greatest risk of high winds over Oregon and extreme southern Washington. The rest of Washington would experience breezy to locally windy conditions at times… especially across the Washington coast south of Aberdeen. If the system tracks slightly further north… high winds could be experienced south of a line from near Kalaloch along the central Washington coast to Tacoma. South winds in this less likely scenario could reach 30 mph with gusts to 45 mph.

Snow will be heavy at times in parts of the Cascades Thursday through Friday resulting in difficult travel conditions and a high avalanche danger. Refer to the latest winter storm and avalanche statements for details.

River flooding across the far southern lower elevation basins is also possible. It appears the skokomish and Chehalis river are at greatest risk of flooding. There could also be areas of urban and small stream flooding affecting the Metro corridor… especially from Everett southward… where the highest rainfall amounts are expected. Refer the latest flood statements for details in the event watches or warnings are issued.

This is a rapidly evolving and complex storm system. A lot of uncertainty still exists so current forecasts should be monitored closely. For more information listen to NOAA Weather Radio or visit www.Weather.Gov/Seattle for the latest statements regarding this storm. People planning travel across the Cascade passes should be prepared for hazardous driving conditions at times through Friday.

Apparently two – count ‘em – two major storms are moving into the Northwest overnight and tomorrow, and here’s the latest “Wind Advisory” from the National Weather Service, which is predicting gusts up to 50mph:

A Wind Advisory remains in effect until 7 am PST Wednesday.

A strong Pacific frontal system will move onto the Washington coast late this evening and across the interior after midnight. South winds will increase to 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 50 mph this evening… .then shift to southwest and slowly decrease by Wednesday morning. Expect the strongest winds over the east Strait to occur behind the front after midnight… where southwesterly winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 50 mph are expected.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Wind Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 30 to 39 mph or gusts of 45 to 57 mph are likely. Winds this strong can snap small tree branches… topple small or shallow rooted trees… and cause local power outages.

And what goes better with a major “Wind Advisory” than a warning from Seattle City Light with the UPPERCASE words: “CITY LIGHT RECOMMENDS CUSTOMERS GET READY” in the title? Notice how they didn’t toss this out Monday morning before we received those surprising, sudden 40+mph gusts:

National Weather Service forecasting gale force winds

SEATTLE – Seattle City Light is preparing its crews for a series of winter wind storms heading our way today through Friday. The storms are expected to bring rain and strong winds to the Puget Sound area through the weekend.

“Living in the Pacific Northwest means you need to be ready for winter storms,” City Light Superintendent Jorge Carrasco said. “Our crews are ready so that if this storm causes any outages, we can restore power as quickly as possible. We have been busy throughout the year clearing tree branches from more than 300 line miles of power lines. Even so, we want our customers to be ready in the event an outage.”

The National Weather Service issued a High Wind Advisory today with a forecast for wind gusts up to 35 mph this evening. A storm with more intense winds is predicted to hit our area on New Years day.

City Light has crews ready to respond and the supplies that may be needed should there be a significant wind event. “We’ve asked the Call Center to remain open tonight,” says Chris Heimgartner, Energy Delivery and Customer Care Officer for City Light. “We are prepared for the possibility of outages occurring throughout our service territory and we can have back-up help available to us quickly if there is significant wind damage. Our main concern is the saturated ground from the snow and rain. Similar to 2006, this can bring down whole trees onto power lines.” City Light has written agreements with other utilities in the region and throughout the West to send back-up crews should the outages and damage be widespread.

If a large-scale storm event occurs, residents should be ready with emergency supplies for at least three days. Items to include are a hand-crank or battery-operated flashlight and radio, fresh batteries, a survival blanket, a first aid kit, pocket tissues and hand sanitizer wipes.

City Light reminds customers to be safe. Downed lines can be dangerous. Also, City Light urges customers to be prepared for any possible outages. Here’s what customers can do if they experience a power outage:

• Do not get within 10’ of any downed wire. Wires should always be assumed to be “live” and dangerous. If someone seeks a downed wire, they should call (206) 706-0051;
• Do not use a barbecue grill or generator inside the house or in a garage that is attached to the house. Do not use a grill or generator near a home air intake vent or near windows;
• Do not use fossil fuel burning auxiliary heating sources;
• Have an emergency power outage kit available and well-stocked. There should be sufficient supplies to last three days for every family member and family pets. Make sure all batteries are fresh. To find out what to put into a kit, go to www.takewinterbystorm.org;
• Know how to manually override electric garage doors, security doors and gates;
• Have a land line phone or fully charged cell phone available – cordless phones won’t work when the power is out;
• Unplug electrical appliances if the power goes out so that when the power comes back on, there won’t be a surge that could damage sensitive electronic equipment;
• Use battery-powered flashlights – not candles or oil lamps;
• Close doors, windows, curtains, and unused fireplace dampers to retain heat if there is an outage;

So…are you ready this time?

Personally, we think this new “Wind Advisory” should’ve been issued Monday around 11:30am (when gusts hit 43mph at Sea-Tac Airport) but we’ll take what we can get, right?

And what we’ll get is wind. Lots of wind. Which means…potential power outages, so be prepared folks.

And now, here’s the latest Weather/Wind Advisory from the National Weather Service:

… Wind Advisory in effect for the interior lowlands from 6 PM this evening to 7 am PST Wednesday…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Wind Advisory… which is in effect from 6 PM this evening to 7 am PST Wednesday.

A strong Pacific frontal system will move onto the Washington coast around midnight tonight and inland by early Wednesday morning. The strongest winds across most inland areas will occur ahead of the front… with southerly 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 50 mph possible. Expect the strongest winds over the east Strait to occur with the front after midnight… where southwesterly winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 50 mph are possible.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Wind Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 30 to 39 mph or gusts of 45 to 57 mph are likely. Winds this strong can snap small tree branches… topple small or shallow-rooted trees… and cause local power outages.

Starting around 11:30am Monday morning (Dec. 29th), we’ve noticed numerous major wind gusts blowing all sorts of loose garbage and recycling all around Burien.

We don’t remember reading any Weather Advisories on this, so we just checked the NOAA Weather website for live conditions at Sea-Tac Airport, and here’s what we found:

WIND GUSTS UP TO 43 MPH!

Here’s a screenshot from the website:

And here’s a live feed from a webcam at the airport – if there’s no image, or if the airplanes in the image are on their sides, that means the wind gusts are even worse (refresh the page to see the latest image):

The good news from this sudden windstorm?

Kiteboarding’s up at 3 Tree Point!

Please either email us your windstorm pics or add ‘em to our Flickr Group so we can share them!

Carolyn Rosenfield found an easier way to get around Burien – by cross country skiing on SW 172nd in 3 Tree Point. Photo by John Naubert.

10:45am 12/24/08 UPDATE: The soggy rain transition period continues, and with it comes potential new dangers like clogged storm drains, slushy roads, large walls of plowed, heavy snow and excessive roof loads.

Some updates:

• The City of Burien’s offices will be open until 2pm this afternoon.
• All Burien Parks and Recreation programs are canceled for the week.
• Far as we know, most restaurants in Burien are open today (including The Mark)
• Normandy Park residents have until 3:30pm to haul their own garbage/recycling to one of two locations for disposal (think of yourself as Santa; read this post here for details)
• Metro Transit is focusing on core service until weather and road conditions improve, which means bus service will be significantly limited during the weather emergency. Information about bus status is available on Metro’s Ice & Snow page, which is updated frequently. You can also call the Metro Customer Information Office at (206) 553-3000, but call volumes are high and there may be a wait to talk to a CIO representative.
• Burien’s garbage & recycling service has been canceled for today, Dec. 24 (Waste Management) http://www.wmnorthwest.com/weatherboard.html
• Residents are advised to avoid piling snow on top of storm drains when shoveling sidewalks and driveways. Storm drains need to be kept clear, so when the snow melts the runoff has some place to go. Residents are encouraged to clear snow from storm drains, when streets are clear of cars, after snow and ice starts to thaw. Clearing snow from storm drains will help to reduce the amount of localized flooding, which is likely to occur based on weather forecasts of warming temperatures and rain.

Here’s some info from the City of Burien’s website on excessive roof loads:

Recent weather conditions in the region resulting in abnormally heavy snowfalls may result in excessive roof loads on buildings due to the accumulation of snow and ice.

The series of snow storms that have hit the state have left several inches of snow and ice on roofs, which have added to the total weight that trusses and rafters must support. A cubic foot of snow can weigh from seven pounds for snow that is new and dry up to 30 pounds for old, compacted snow. Rain falling on accumulated snow will add even more weight. The combination of these factors and the recent forecast which calls for more snow and rain over the next couple of days may cause an excess of snow loading on many roofs.

Watch for Early Warning Signs of Overloading:

• Be on the watch for these warning signs:
• Severe roof leaks, indicating torn roof membranes.
• Ripples or bends in metal supports.
• Loud popping noises emanating from the building structure.
• Water ponds in areas where it never accumulated before.
• Obvious deformities in the roof.

What to do if you Suspect Overloading
When snow removal is necessary, it should be remembered that unsafe procedures may cause a collapse and injuries. Anyone working on a roof must have adequate fall protection and keep in mind that workers and others nearby can be injured by snow being dumped from a roof.

Once it has been determined that the snow must be removed, there are several options for snow removal.

Most roofing contractors are equipped to handle snow removal from the roof of your home and buildings.

Another option is to remove the snow yourself. The best way to do this is to get up on your roof and push the snow off with a broom or shovel. It is important to use ladders, safety ropes and take necessary precautions.

Snow rakes also can be used to remove snow. When using a snow rake, use extreme caution when working near overhead electrical power lines. Also, avoid excessive scraping on the roof or trying to chip off any ice.

And finally, here’s a cool website where kids of all ages can watch Santa’s progress as he delivers his goodies around the world:

• NORAD Tracks Santa

Lake Burien is still partially frozen Wednesday morning, with a fresh dusting of scenic snow. Photo by Gregory Rehmke.

Looks like we’re in the icky weather transition period where the snow turns into rain (depending on where you live – we’re near the water and it’s raining here), and the roads become a huge slushy mess – a perfect day to clear any and all storm drains near your house, as the next phase will involve lots of water.

There’s still a Winter Weather Advisory in effect until 4pm today:

The Winter Weather Advisory is now in effect until 4 PM PST this afternoon.

Snow is expected to continue this morning. By late morning or early afternoon the snow will change over to rain in locations below 500 to 1000 feet. The higher hills continue with snow through this afternoon.

Up to two inches of new snow is possible before the change over to rain. Higher amounts are possible on hills above 500 to 1000 feet.

Snow showers could bring additional accumulations late tonight and on Christmas day.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means that periods of snow will cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered roads and limited visibilities… and use caution while driving.

3:30pm 12/23/08 UPDATE: As of 3pm, the National Weather Service released this Winter Storm Advisory – 2 to 4 inches of snow are expected Wed. Dec. 24th, with a transition to rain also:

… Winter Weather Advisory in effect from midnight tonight to 4 am PST Thursday…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for snow… which is in effect from midnight tonight to 4 am PST Thursday. This upgrades the Winter Storm Watch which had been in effect.

Snow is expected to begin after midnight tonight and continue through Wednesday morning. The snow will be light at first but then increase its intensity on Wednesday morning. Late on Wednesday morning or early in the afternoon… locations below 500 to 1000 feet will transition to a cold rain… while higher hills continue with snow through Wednesday afternoon.

Snowfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected. Significantly higher amounts are possible on hills above 500 to 1000 feet or anywhere that precipitation might continue as snow through the afternoon and evening.

Snow showers could bring additional accumulations on Christmas day.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means that periods of snow will cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered roads and limited visibilities… and use caution while driving.

Also, this update about garbage collection in Normandy Park:

Garbage Collection
Allied Waste has not been able to collect residential garbage and recycling due to road conditions. City staff and Allied Waste have arranged for residential drop off services at two locations in Normandy Park.

Residential customers will have access to collection vehicles/containers for residential garbage and recyclables on Wednesday, December 24th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the locations below:

City Hall Parking Lot – 801 S.W. 174th Street

and

Marvista Park Parking Lot – 19900 4th Avenue S.W.

Regular collection services will resume when road conditions improve and collection vehicles are able to safely operate on residential streets.

11:15am 12/23/08 UPDATE: Looks like another snow storm is coming tonight (Tues. 12/23), with up to six more inches of snow predicted to fall overnight.

Perhaps we will indeed have a “White Christmas” after all?

AREA UPDATES:

• City Hall and the Parks office will be open today until 2pm.
• Burien Parks and Recreation programs are cancelled for today.
• No garbage/recycling pickup today (more details here).
• Road crews continue to plow and sand streets starting with main arterials and moving to secondary streets when they are able.  More details about priority routes can be found on our Snow & Ice Routes Map [PDF].  Please drive with extreme caution and only if necessary.

WEATHER UPDATE:

Here’s the latest Winter Storm Watch from the National Weather Service:

… Winter Storm Watch in effect from late tonight through Wednesday evening…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Storm Watch… which is in effect from late tonight through Wednesday evening.

Another low pressure system is expected to drop southeast into the Pacific northwest late tonight into Wednesday. A relatively cold air mass will be in place ahead of this system. With the cold air in place… up to another six inches of new snow is possible by Wednesday evening with the snow beginning sometime late tonight. As the system moves through… the low level wind flow will become southwesterly. This should warm up the air mass enough to change the precipitation from snow to rain. This transition is expected to occur Wednesday afternoon but there is plenty of uncertainty surrounding the timing of this transition if it even occurs at all.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Storm Watch means conditions are favorable for severe winter weather. If you must travel in the watch area… carry an extra flashlight… food… water… and blankets in case of emergency.

Live webcam view from Sea-Tac Airport.
Refresh page to get latest image.

Also, according to the Port of Seattle, Sea-Tac Airport’s stranded travelers are starting to clear out, which must be a relief for everyone who got stuck there.

A local tech Writer named John Cook got stranded at Sea-Tac for seven hours, and here’s a snippet from his blog:

Seven hours.

That’s how long my fellow passengers and I spent waiting on the airport tarmac Sunday as an uncharacteristic winter blast brought SeaTac airport to a grinding halt.

Here’s a link to his interesting first-hand account.

And here’s an update from the Port on the current airport conditions:

The airport is open and the runways are clear for operations. The situation is improving, but there are still flight cancellations and delays. Please check with your airline before starting for the airport. You can also check your flight status online (http://hosting.portseattle.org/fids/FlightInfo.aspx) on the Port’s Web site or via text messaging.

If your scheduled flight is canceled, rebook travel over the Internet or over the phone; do not come to the airport. Long lines at the ticket counters make it more efficient and quicker to rebook off-site.

If a scheduled flight is planned to depart, allow extra travel time to the airport to accommodate challenging regional road conditions and lines at ticket counters and security checkpoints. Plan to arrive at the airport two hours before departure time. It’s a good idea to bring necessary items (diapers, snacks, etc.) in case there are delays and/or long wait times. Airport concessions are open, stocked and prepared to serve.

The airport is continuing to provide volunteer staff in the terminal to assist passengers, answer questions, and assist with line control / crowd control issues.

Just got some info from Jenn Ramirez-Robson of the City of Burien, who forwards us this update from Waste Management on Burien-area garbage and recycling pickup (missed again today but scheduled for another try next week, when you can put out TRIPLE the amount of garbage and recycling as usual):

Monday, December 22 – Due to inclement weather, Waste Management has cancelled collection services for their customers in King, Snohomish, Kitsap and Skagit Counties.

Please note that our call center will not be open until it’s safe for our employees to return to the office.

For the most up to date status of your service we urge you to go to our website: www.wmnorthwest.com/weatherboard.html.

Residential customers: Twice the regular amount of garbage, recycling and/or yard waste will be accepted at no additional charge on the next regularly scheduled collection day for each container. If your next regularly scheduled collection falls on a holiday, Waste Management will collect the following day. For example, due to Christmas, this week’s Thursday customers will be serviced on Friday and Friday customers will be serviced on Saturday.

Residential customers in the City of Seattle: If inclement weather causes missed collections for one day, missed customers will be picked up the following day and all other residential collection will be pushed back one day. If two consecutive collection days are cancelled due to inclement weather, customers may set out a double load on their next scheduled collection day.

Commercial customers. Priority service is given to locations such as hospitals and restaurants where public health is a high priority. All other commercial customers will be serviced as soon as conditions allow for safe collection.

Waste Management is committed to providing reliable collection for all customers. However, in the event that circumstances such as unsafe roads interfere with service schedules, we appreciate customer understanding and cooperation as we manage collection on emergency scheduling.

Waste Management customers are strongly encourages to visit our website for up-to-the-minute collection updates www.wmnorthwest.com/weatherboard.html.

If garbage is missed twice, residents may put out three times as much on the third scheduled collection day.  We certainly will do all we can to keep that eventuality to a minimum!

We are also using outdial phone calls to help keep residents as well informed as possible.

Reminders about how to package extras:

If recycling or yard waste is regularly collected every other week, the missed material will be collected on the next scheduled day for that container (two weeks from the missed collection), unless residents are otherwise notified by telephone or on this site.

Extra garbage: Place next to garbage container in:

• Securely tied plastic bags labeled “Garbage” or
• 32-gal can with handle and lid (65 lb limit) labeled “Garbage”

Extra recycling: Place next to recycling cart in:

• Plastic recycling bins or
• Cardboard boxes (2×2x2 ft. limit) labeled “Recycling”
• No recycling in plastic bags

Extra yard trimmings (No food scraps or plastic): Place next to yard cart in:

• Heavy paper yard bags (available at hardware stores) or
• Reusable polywoven yard bags (available at hardware stores) or
• 32-gal cans with handles & lids (65 lb limit) labeled “Yard” or
• Bundles tied with sisal twine (4′x2′ limit)

The white blanket is really covering up the Brrrien area today (including the B-Town Blogmobile above), with upwards of over a foot of snow, and here are some updates to keep in mind as you either continue to hunker down or dare to go out:

SEA-TAC AIRPORT UPDATE:

• Some flights are resuming, others remain canceled. Best bet is to check the Port of Seattle’s airport website here (note: their website appears to be overloaded so be patient). Here’s a statement from that site: Many airlines have suspended or canceled flights, while others are continuing to operate. Travelers should check with their specific airlines for schedule confirmations or changes. Inclement weather at several other major airports has caused delayed arrivals and departures, causing the airlines to have aircraft at the wrong airports for scheduled flights (i.e. if an expected flight from Denver didn’t arrive at Sea-Tac as scheduled in the evening, it cannot depart in the morning).

SCHOOL CLOSURES:

• We’re sure you’re aware of this, but just in case – ALL PUBLIC & PRIVATE CHILDREN’S SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED, as it’s now Winter Break.
• Highline School District’s Admin offices are also CLOSED.
• South Seattle Community College is CLOSED.
• Highline Community College is CLOSED.

CITY OF BURIEN:

• Burien City Hall will be open for limited hours, 10:00am – 2:00pm on Monday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday, Dec. 23. Please check http://www.burienwa.gov for weather related closures and information.
• All Burien Parks and Recreation scheduled programs have been canceled for Monday.
• Road crews continue to plow and sand streets as snow has continued to fall, starting with main arterials and moving to secondary streets when they are able.  More details about priority routes can be found on our Snow & Ice Routes Map [PDF].  Please drive with extreme caution and only if necessary.

CITY OF NORMANDY PARK:

• Normandy Park’s City Hall is CLOSED today due to weather and travel conditions. City Hall will open late on Tuesday, December 23^rd at 10:00AM and close at 2PM.
• Road crews reported most of the main routes have been plowed and sanded.  Please drive with extreme caution and only if necessary.

LIBRARY UPDATES:

• Far as we can tell, both the Burien and White Center library branches are open today from 10am-9pm.
• More info on library closures available here.

OTHER CLOSURES:

• Garbage & recycling service has been CANCELED for today; Waste Management says: “Double volume next regular collection day for each missed container” when in fact it would be TRIPLE VOLUME!; more info here: http://www.wmnorthwest.com/weatherboard.html
• King County District Court will be CLOSED.

METRO BUS SERVICE:

• Once again due to the weather and dangerous driving conditions, King County Metro Transit will be operating approximately half of its normal bus service for Monday, Dec. 22. Information about bus status is available on Metro’s Ice & Snow page, which is updated frequently. You can also call the Metro Customer Information Office at (206) 553-3000, but call volumes are high and there may be a wait to talk to a CIO representative.

OTHER TIPS/COMMENTS:

• To see live road conditions via webcam feeds, go to our Webcams page.
• If you haven’t started your car since the snow first fell, you should start it up. Also, wipe off the windshield and do NOT turn on your wipers, unless your windshield is warmed up and there’s no ice around them – turning on frozen windshield wipers can strip the gears and thus ruin them.
• Make sure your pets are okay. BTB Reader Katie Hicks sends us this email: “Could you please remind people that it is FREEZING outside and they should let their pets that live outdoors IN! It is making me sick to my stomach that I have seen dogs sleeping outside!”

And get this – some are predicting an additional 5-8 inches overnight!

Also, due to this event, Alaska Airlines has canceled all Alaska and Horizon airlines flights into and out of both Seattle and Portland. More info at the Port of Seattle’s airport website here.

Here are some selected weather warning snippets, as well as the latest Winter Storm Warning:

TONIGHT: Snow this evening will give way to lingering snow showers late. Low 28F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 70%. Snow accumulating 2 to 4 inches.

MONDAY: Intermittent snow showers, especially early. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 40%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.

… Winter Storm Warning in effect until 4 am PST Monday…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Storm Warning… which is in effect until 4 am PST Monday. The Winter Weather Advisory is no longer in effect.

An additional 3 to 6 inches of snow is expected through tonight in the Puget Sound lowlands and the lower Chehalis valley. A few isolated locations could receive as much as 8 inches. Snowfall amounts will be variable from location to location.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow means significant snowfall is occurring or imminent. Snowfall intensities will be heavy enough to reduce visibilities to near zero at times.

Here’s an earlier update from the City of Burien:

No major power outages overnight in Burien
City staff continue to monitor weather conditions. Please check back for weather related closures and information. The weather forecast still calls for more snow, ice and cold temperatures. Go to www.weather.gov/seattle for updated forecasts and weather warnings.

Road crews have plowed and sanded most of the main arterials and are working on the secondaries.  More details about priority routes can be found on our Snow & Ice Routes Map [PDF].

Metro Bus Service:
Once again due to the weather and dangerous driving conditions, King County Metro Transit will be operating approximately half of its normal bus service for Sunday, Dec. 21 and will run three Seahawks shuttles.Information about bus status is available on Metro’s Ice & Snow page, which is updated frequently. You can also call the Metro Customer Information Office at (206) 553-3000, but call volumes are high and there may be a wait to talk to a CIO representative. Please drive with extreme caution and only if necessary.

PREVIOUSLY:

Just when you thought Ol’ Man Winter was done introducing his bad self to Brrrien comes this news from the National Weather Service – 2-4 more inches of snow are due to hit the area today:

The Winter Weather Advisory is now in effect until 4 am PST Monday.

After a brief break in precipitation through midday…moderate to occasionally heavy snow showers will move across western Washington with an incoming frontal system. New snowfall accumulations of 2 to 4 inches are likely in the interior lowlands between this afternoon and midnight tonight while heavier 6 to 9 inch accumulations are likely in the mountains. In the mountains east winds gusting to 30 mph will produce some drifting and blowing of the snow.

Snow shower activity will taper off from the north around midnight tonight.

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads and use caution while driving.

Live webcam view from Sea-Tac Airport
(refresh page to see latest image).

Cancellations and delays continue at Sea-Tac Airport, and here’s the latest bulletin from the Port of Seattle:

Airport is open – two runways are operational.

There are many airline-initiated cancellations.

Backlog of stranded passengers awaiting rebooking.

No local hotel rooms available, many passengers sleeping in airport.

Travelers are advised to contact their airline for flight status and to attempt to rebook from home.

Airport concessions are having trouble getting deliveries, anyone coming to the airport should come prepared.

If you’re planning on flying out anytime soon, be sure to check your flight status at the airport’s Web site: http://hosting.portseattle.org/fids.

To see live road conditions via webcam feeds, go to our Webcams page.

Lake Burien is partially frozen! Photo taken by Contributing Photographer
Gregory Rehmke at 8am, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2008.

Nice way to wake up to Winter Solstice huh?

Between 3-5 inches of powdery, icy new snow, on top of the previous 4-5 inches…perfect day to play outside and enjoy this rare event.

Some interesting tidbits about last night’s storm:

• The snow is very crunchy, due to its heavy ice content.
• Some roads have been plowed and sanded, but please don’t try to drive unless you really must.
• To see live road conditions via webcam feeds, go to our Webcams page and refresh the page to see the latest images.
• According to the National Weather Service, a record low was tied at Sea-Tac Airport: “A record low temperature of 14 degrees was set at Seattle-Tacoma Airport yesterday. This ties the old record of 14 set in 1990. A record snowfall of 3 inches was set at Seattle-Tacoma Airport yesterday. This breaks the old record of 1.7 set in 1951.”
• Metro and Sound Transit buses are operating on a very limited schedule Sunday – about half their usual service. However, there will still be runs to today’s Seahawks game (including the Sounder trains which are experiencing NO delays), which should be fun as long as they leave the snow on the field. Check Metro’s regular website, their Seahawks Shuttle one, or Sound Transit’s for full details.
• Sea-Tac Airport travelers had many problems due to the storm, ranging from delayed or cancelled flights to being stuck in the airport with no available hotel rooms. KOMO News says: “A miserable combination of cancelled flights, hazardous weather conditions and heavy passenger volumes added up to one giant migraine for many travelers at Sea-Tac International Airport on Sunday. Thousands of people arrived at the regional hub airport only to learn that their flight had been cancelled, then couldn’t find transportation back home.”

Also, here’s the latest Winter Weather Advisory (downgraded from a Winter Storm Watch):

… Winter Weather Advisory in effect until 4 PM PST this afternoon… Winter Storm Warning is cancelled…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Weather Advisory… which is in effect until 4 PM PST this afternoon. The Winter Storm Warning has been cancelled.

Snow showers will continue today over the area. Intermittent freezing rain from Everett southward this morning will come to an end as a front moves through the region. An organized band of showers will move across western Washington late this morning into the afternoon hours. Up to two inches of new snow is possible by late this afternoon. In addition… this morning ice accumulation up to a quarter of an inch is also possible.

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads and use caution while driving.

Have any cool snow/ice photos to share?

Please either email us or add ‘em to our Flickr Group so we can share them!

“Blurry, Snow Bokeh” courtesy Flickr Photog Michael Brunk

Some recaps and updates on this wacky Brrrien snow “event,” which appears to be winding down.

First, this urgent street closure update from the City of Burien, as of 12/18 8pm:

Road conditions
• SW 160th St. closed-Use 8th Ave SW to access Highline Medical Center ER
• Southbound Ambaum Blvd is closed at SW 116th St. One lane is open northbound Ambaum Blvd
• 1st Ave S from SW 152nd St to SW 156th is currently CLOSED
• SW 156th St from 1st Ave SW to 4th Ave SW is currently CLOSED

Burien road conditions are deteriorating. Please drive only if necessary and with extreme caution

Road crews concentrate on getting and keeping primary routes (like 1st Ave S) plowed. Once the snow stops and the primary routes are clear, crews move to the secondary routes and then neighborhood roads. Following the plows are the sanders to provide traction on the ice. Snow plows’ rubber blades do not remove ice.More details about priority routes can be found on our Snow & Ice Routes Map [pdf].

Secondly, tomorrow’s school closures (Fri.12/19) – far as we can tell, every school is closed, so have fun kids:

• Highline Public Schools: CLOSED
• Seattle Public Schools: CLOSED
• John F. Kennedy High School: CLOSED
• St. Francis of Assisi: CLOSED
• Hamlin-Robinson School: CLOSED
• Westside School: CLOSED
• Tukwila Public Schools: CLOSED
• Federal Way School District: CLOSED

Here’s the updated, yet sadly “expired” winter weather advisory (as of 6:19pm 12/18):

... Winter Weather Advisory for Everett and vicinity… the Seattle and Bremerton areas… and the Admiralty Inlet area has expired…

The Winter Weather Advisory for snow is no longer in effect. The snow showers had ended or tapered off to flurries… thus additional significant snowfall accumulation was unlikely.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

Those planning travel in the advisory area should be prepared for hazardous… winter driving conditions.

And now, some of our personal observations from today:

• This afternoon, we drove to and from Sea-Tac Airport safely, but slowly (and saw lots of idiots speeding around in their SUVs…d’oh!)
• In our ‘hood, we saw a dude snowboarding behind a truck (w/no helmet of course). That’s right – the kid was being towed by the truck, sliding around pretty quickly.
• Another guy was cruising around in a snowmobile, towing his kids’ sled behind (if he had a glowing red schnauze we woulda yelled “Slow down Rudolph!”)
• Favorite snow prank of the day: telling our kids to stand under a snow-covered tree and look up under the branches closely (“there’s something really cool up there”), then tossing a snowball into the branches, thus causing the accumulated snow to fall onto said children’s faces…ha.

Here are some more BTB Reader pics:

Photographic proof that 5 inches of snow fell in Seahurst Thursday; photo courtesy Stephanie Breslin, who says: “My boyfriend was measuring the snow to let me know how much had fallen since yesterday…not very scientific but I thought it was fun…”

Photo by Carol Morrison, who says: “Chico is the black cat and Nico is the grey cat. I live on 164th Place, which is parallel to Maplewild; we usually have a nice view of Vashon Island but not today!”

Have some snow photos to share?

Please either email us or add ‘em to our Flickr Group so we can share them.

3:30pm UPDATE: Still snowing in Burien (although lighter down near the water) and our own estimate as to accumulation is between 4 and 5 inches, as measured on top of the official Mini Cooper Blogmobile and a backyard table.

Here are some snow photos taken by BTBers Scott Schaefer and Janet Grella:

The sun attempts to break through the snow clouds.

The B-Town Blogmobile suddenly looks edible.

One of Burien's cutest residents shows off her Snowman.

A Metro Access Van got stuck trying to climb SW 160th.

Entering Burien from the West 518 isn't a problem – as long as you know how to drive in the snow.

Ironically, even though this driver was in an Audi Quattro, he still had to get towed near the 509/518 interchange.

Driving down into the scenery at Three Tree Point was like falling into a holiday postcard.

More snow photos coming soon. If you have some, please either email us directly or add ‘em to our Flickr Group so we can share them.

PREVIOUS UPDATES:

12:25pm UPDATE: Highline Public Schools is sending its middle and high school students home early; here’s their bulletin:

• Buses will pick up students at Puget Sound Skills Center at 11:45 a.m. and return them to their high schools.
• High schools will be dismissed at noon.
• Middle schools will be dismissed at 12:30.
• Emergency bus stops will be used on all bus routes.
• All after-school and evening activities, sports, and events and evening building use have been canceled.
• Also, we hope to make decisions about tomorrow this evening.

11:25am UPDATE: The snow is still falling (harder now) in and around Burien; looks like we’re close to 2-3 inches down by the water, which usually is half of what’s accumulating up in the main B-Town area; Postal Service has delivered though (nuthin’ stops them), and according to BTB Reader Jenn Ramirez-Robson:

“Road conditions are getting treacherous in and around Burien. 2 inches in Shorewood and cars spinning out everywhere. No one should drive unless they absolutely have to.”

Jenn also alerts us to this rather interesting statement from the Highline School District’s website:

Due to late developing snow, we have closed all elementary schools today. Because weather conditions worsened after secondary students were already in school or en route to school, we have decided to keep all middle schools and high schools open today. We will monitor conditions throughout the day and determine whether an early release is necessary.

School delay or closure decisions are very difficult to make because they must be made very early in the morning with the best information we have at the time. We recognize that schedule changes, especially late-breaking ones, create many difficulties for families and employees. We regret the inconvenience. Please know that we make these decisions with student safety as our primary consideration.

Have some snow photos to share? Please either email us or add ‘em to our Flickr Group so we can share them.

8:48am UPDATE: ALL HIGHLINE GRADE SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED TODAY, while Middle & High Schools will have a 1-hour delay.

Here’s the latest school info (our source is http://www.schoolreport.org):

• Highline School District: ALL GRADE SCHOOLS CLOSED; MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOLS 1 HOUR LATE
  Limited Bus Transportation. No Out-of-District Transport.
• John F. Kennedy High School: CLOSED
• St. Francis of Assisi: CLOSED. All Activities Canceled
• Hamlin-Robinson School: CLOSED
• Westside School: CLOSED
  
• Seattle Public Schools: CLOSED
• Tukwila Public Schools: CLOSED
• Federal Way SD: 2 HOURS LATE
  Emergency Bus Routes, No AM Kindergarten, Preschool, or Shuttles. No AM/PM HDST, ECEAP, ELO, or Puget Sound Skills, No Activity Buses, No Elementary Breakfast Programs, No Out-of-District Transportation.

And here’s the latest from the National Weather Service:

… Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 am PST this morning…

A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the Seattle Bremerton area… the Tacoma area… and the Hood Canal area until 10 am PST this morning.

Snow showers will continue this morning then decrease this afternoon. Additional accumulations will be around an inch. North winds pushing southward across the Puget Sound region will converge with pre-existing south winds… causing snow showers to form. In addition… snow showers moving inland from the coast will cross the south part of Puget Sound.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means that periods of snow will cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered roads and limited visibilities… and use caution while
driving.

Also, if you have to drive anywhere outside of Burien, please don’t – or at least check the webcams below (for latest images refresh your browser window):

Also keep your eye on the Weather Button on the right sidebar for the current temp and any new weather “Advisory.”

NOTE: THIS POSTING IS FROM DEC. 16, 2008:

The latest National Weather Service winter storm warning was released today (Tuesday, Dec. 16th) at 3:43pm, and it goes something like this:

…Winter Storm Watch now in effect from late tonight through Thursday morning…

The Winter Storm Watch is now in effect from late tonight through Thursday morning for the central Puget Sound area southward as well as the central coast.

Although everywhere in western Washington will get some snow…some areas may not get heavy snow… or if they do… it will begin a little later. For these areas… which include the Seattle/Bremerton area… Tacoma and vicinity… the southwest interior… the lower Chehalis valley… the Hood Canal area… and the central coast… a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect.

Forecasts call for up to 2 inches of snow in these areas on Wednesday… and another inch or two could fall Wednesday night. There is uncertainty about the amount of snow that could fall over these areas but the watch could be changed to a warning later.

Precautionary/preparedness actions… monitor weather forecasts and Road conditions carefully. Stay indoors if at all possible. Travel is likely to be adversely impacted Wednesday into Thursday and possibly longer.

The National Weather Service issued another winter storm watch Monday at 3:28pm, and this one looks like it could dump some real, heavy snow – 3-6 inches by Wednesday night!

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Storm Watch…which is in effect from late Tuesday night through late Wednesday night.

Heavy snow is likely over western Washington on Wednesday. Three to six inches are possible in certain areas… including the east Puget Sound lowlands… the northwest and southwest interiors… and the Strait of Juan de Fuca area. Snow in these areas will begin in the north late Tuesday night and spread south Wednesday morning.

By Wednesday night three to six inches of new snow are possible.

Other areas… including the Seattle metropolitan area and the Kitsap peninsula… could get less snow. Here models show one or two inches are possible. On the coast it is possible that conditions will be warm enough for rain part of the time… or mixed rain and snow. However it is not certain that sub-warning amounts will fall in these areas and the Winter Storm Watch extends to them as well.

The Cascades and Olympics will also receive heavy snow… with one or two feet of new snow likely.

Snow levels will be at sea level through much of the event so virtually all of the precipitation will be in the form of snow.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

Monitor weather forecasts. If you have to travel…Tuesday is likely to be a much better day than Wednesday.

The National Weather Service issued the following Advisory Monday morning at 6:01am, with the biggest news being that Burien is now Brrrien, last night’s low ties the record (yay team! 20 degrees!), and there’s an 80% chance of snow on Wednesday:

… Snow expected in The Lowlands on Wednesday…
… Cold weather in store for the remainder of the week…

Snow is forecast for The Lowlands of western Washington Wednesday. A developing weather system along the northern British Columbia coast Tuesday will move south over western Washington on Wednesday. This system will draw moist air off the ocean which will override the cold air mass in place over western Washington producing snow. At this point… it is difficult to say how much snow this system will produce. Small changes in the track of the system can effect the amount of snow over the area greatly.

Cold Arctic air will remain over western Washington this week. Daytime highs will have a hard time getting above freezing and nighttime lows could drop into the single digits in some places. Record lows have already been set for today. Previous cold spells this time of year will make the record lows harder to break for the next couple of days.

Since 1990 the low temperature at Seattle-Tacoma Airport has dropped to 15 degrees or less only twice… January 30, 1996 and December 20,1998. Both days the low was 15 degrees. In December 1990 the low temperature at Seattle Tacoma Airport dropped to 15 degrees or less on 5 days.

The record for consecutive days with highs freezing or below at Seattle-Tacoma Airport is 10 set January 21-30, 1969. Here is a list of the top five streaks of high temperatures freezing or below at Seattle Tacoma Airport.

1. 10 days January 21-30, 1969
2. 9 days December 4-12, 1972
3. 7 days January 27 to February 2, 1950
4. 7 days January 12-18, 1950
5. 6 days December 19-24, 1990

In January 1950 the average daily high temperature for the month was 30.7 degrees. This is the only month in the official Seattle weather records that the average daily high temperature was below freezing.

If you have to drive today, be aware that back roads and side streets will be even slicker than yesterday, as what landed and melted has re-frozen even worse; here are a few webcams worth checking out (TIP: Refresh this page to get latest images):

The National Weather Service released this “Winter Storm Watch” warning at 2:10pm Thurs. Dec. 11th:

… Winter Storm Watch in effect from Friday afternoon through late Friday night…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Storm Watch… which is in effect from Friday afternoon through late Friday night.

Heavy lowland snow is possible over portions of western Washington Friday night.

At this time it appears that the highest probability of accumulating snow in The Lowlands will over the Kitsap peninsula… along the Strait of Juan de Fuca… and in the foothills of the Cascades. Other areas such as the north coast… the areas north of Seattle in the Puget Sound convergence zone area… and at elevations above about 700 feet in the southwest interior… may also see heavy snow accumulations Friday night depending on the exact track and intensity of the incoming storm. Three to five inch accumulations are possible in the lowland watch area.

A majority of current forecast models suggest that snow would begin falling during the late afternoon hours over the Kitsap peninsula and around Hood Canal… then spread into other areas in the watch around the tail end of the evening commute.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant snow accumulations that may impact travel. Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

Also note that Sunday’s forecast looks *very* cold, with a High of just 28°F and a Low of 19°F!

So…batten down the hatches and stock up B-Town! A storm’s a-brewin’!

Veteran’s Day is Tuesday, Nov. 11th, and with it come the usual holiday closures:

• Schools
• Libraries
• Most banks and credit unions
• Most government offices
• Post offices closed; no home-mail delivery
• State liquor stores
• Buses and ferry service will operate on regular schedules
• The good news? No school, and parking meters won’t be enforced – so take the kids somewhere fun after paying tribute to a Vet!

Also, more severe weather is predicted for the area, with this warning coming from the gods at the National Weather Service:

Flood Watch in effect from Tuesday afternoon through late Wednesday night.

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Flood Watch for portions of western Washington… including the following counties… Grays Harbor… Clallam… Jefferson…Skagit… Whatcom… King… Kitsap… Lewis… Mason… Pierce…Snohomish…Thurston…

From Tuesday afternoon through late Wednesday night a series of fronts is expected to affect the region Tuesday into Wednesday with the potential for very heavy rains over the mountains.

The first front is expected to spread rain across western Washington early Tuesday. Snow levels will start out around 4000 feet then rise to near 6000 feet in the afternoon. This front is expected to produce anywhere between a half inch to one and a half inches of precipitation over the mountains.

A second… stronger front that has entrained tropical moisture will raise the freezing levels above 9000 feet and spread heavier rains across the area. The combination of a strong westerly wind in the mid levels of the atmosphere and abundant moisture is expected to produce very heavy rains along the west slopes of the Olympics and Cascades Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Rainfall amounts over the Olympics and Cascades Tuesday night into Wednesday morning are expected to exceed 3 inches with local areas along the west slopes exceeding 6 inches.

A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on the current forecasts. Residents in the watch area should be aware of the potential for significant rainfall that could lead to flooding and be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

The patented, trademarked and copyrighted B-Town Blog Weather Rock®™© looks like its on the verge of needing a very absorbent diaper soon, as it’s just issued the following Weather Advisory:

… A powerful and wet Pacific storm will bring significant rainfall to western Washington tonight through Wednesday…

A powerful storm more typical of autumn will bring rain… locally heavy… to the area tonight through Wednesday. Storm total rainfall amounts are expected to be in the 2 to 4 inch range in the Olympics… and the 1 to 3 inch range on the coast and Cascades. Elsewhere… amounts will be less or generally in the quarter to one inch range. It is possible that the heavy rains could lead to water rises on small creeks as well as ponding of water in low lying areas.

In addition to the significant rainfall… this storm system will bring gusty winds and usher in a colder air mass Wednesday night. By early Thursday… the snow levels are expected to be mainly in the 6000 to 6500 foot range. People planning on hiking or camping in the mountains should be prepared for Fall-like weather and plan accordingly.

If you don’t have your own patented, trademarked and copyrighted Weather Rock®™©, you can get the full weather report here.

The patented B-Town Blog Weather Rock® is already showing serious signs of melting due to the recent heat wave that’s come in,  so please be aware of the dangers of the following throughout the hot weekend ahead (yay.):

• Pets in cars
• Elderly neighbors or family members
• Magical, large boulders used to predict weather

From the National Weather Service comes this “Advisory”:

…Hot weather across western Washington into the weekend…

A strong ridge of high pressure will build over the Pacific northwest today and persist through at least Saturday. Temperatures on Thursday will be noticeably warmer across western Washington under sunny skies. Offshore flow will strengthen on Friday with much hotter temperatures expected through Saturday.

Some spots may exceed the record high temperatures over the next few days.

Temperatures Thursday are expected to range from the upper 70s and 80s at the coast with widespread 80s across the interior. On Friday and Saturday interior areas north of Seattle will continue in the 80s with temperatures rising mainly into the low and mid 90s around the Puget Sound region… foothills…and southwest interior.

A switch to onshore flow will first occur Saturday afternoon along the coast resulting in cooler high temperatures. Temperatures will begin to moderate across the interior on Sunday as onshore flow increases.

Be careful of the heat in the coming days and check up on the elderly. Stay hydrated and avoid vigorous activity during the heat of the day. Never leave pets in a parked car.

The record temps to beat at SeaTac Airport are (go mercury!):

• THURS. 8/14: 88 (set in 2005)
• FRI. 8/15: 92 (set in 1967)
• SAT. 8/16: 98 (set in 1967) 

So…enjoy another fine summer weekend, but be careful out there.

Wow, just in time for the Burien Strawberry Festival – a minor HEAT WAVE is coming, according to the Patented B-Town Blog Weather Rock:

Hot weather across western Washington this weekend…

A strong ridge of high pressure will build over the Pacific northwest Friday through the weekend. Temperatures on Friday will be noticeably warmer across western Washington under sunny skies. Offshore flow will strengthen over the weekend with much hotter temperatures expected. Some spots may flirt with record high temperatures… especially locations away from the water.

Temperatures on Friday are expected to range from the 70s along the coast to the upper 70s and 80s inland. On Saturday and Sunday most areas should reach into the 80s… with some low to mid 90s possible. It is possible that a few spots could approach or break the record high temperature for the day.

Marine air will arrive at the coast Monday bringing cooler temperatures. However… it may take a couple days for temperatures to moderate over interior western Washington.

Except for the short hot spell in mid may… it has been cooler than normal the last couple months. This will be a rather abrupt transition to hot weather. Be careful of the heat in the coming days and check up on the elderly. Stay hydrated and avoid vigorous activity during the heat of the day. Never leave pets in a parked car.

The record highs to beat at SeaTac are:

• FRIDAY: 88 (set in 2000)
• SATURDAY: 91 (set in 1995)
• SUNDAY: 93 (set in 1987)