The National Weather Service has released an updated forecast for this weekend, and they’re saying we may, just possibly have a 30-40% chance of SNOW starting Friday night (Dec. 11th) continuing through Sunday.

Of course, weather prognosticators are never wrong, are they? We sure hope not.

Here’s their latest day-by-day predictions, as of 9pm Wednesday Dec. 9th, most certain to change as the clock ticks:

• Thursday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. East northeast wind around 6 mph becoming calm.
• Friday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 38. Calm wind.
• Friday Night: A 30 percent chance of snow. Cloudy, with a low around 28. Calm wind becoming north northeast around 6 mph.
• Saturday: A 40 percent chance of snow. Snow level 300 feet. Cloudy, with a high near 40.
• Saturday Night: A chance of snow. Snow level 300 feet. Cloudy, with a low around 32. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
• Sunday: A chance of rain and snow showers. Cloudy, with a high near 41.
• Sunday Night: A chance of rain and snow showers. Cloudy, with a low around 36.
• Monday: A chance of rain and snow. Cloudy, with a high near 42.
• Monday Night: A chance of rain. Cloudy, with a low around 42.

Cliff Mass adds:

A lot of you are wondering about snow. I have been wondering too. The problem is that the models are not consistent for this weekend and early next week. This morning our local model forced by the GFS..the NWS’s best large scale forecast model, indicated a major snowstorm late Monday. But I don’t trust any of it at this point and you shouldn’t either. Thursday and Friday until dinnertime looks dry for western Washington…and cold. You can bank on that.

BTW, a record low of 18 was set at SeaTac Airport Wednesday morning (Dec. 9th). The previous low was 21, set in 1972.

The National Weather Service issued a “Wind Advisory” early Wednesday morning, so again, be sure to double-tie down your blue (and other colored) tarps Burien, as sustained winds of 20-30mph may be coming.

Here’s the advisory in all its weatherspeak glory:

… Wind Advisory in effect from 1 PM this afternoon to 1 am PST Thursday…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Wind Advisory… which is in effect from 1 PM this afternoon to 1 am PST Thursday.

Southerly winds will increase today… peaking late this afternoon through the evening hours. Sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected with gusts to 40 to 50 mph… mainly this evening. The strongest winds are expected to occur over the north Hood Canal across to western Snohomish County… the entrances to the Strait and over the lower Chehalis valley.

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.

You know it’s November in the Northwest when another Weather Advisory gets posted – this one a “Wind Advisory” predicted to hit around 6pm Sunday night and continue for at least another 24 hours.

As usual, batten down your blue tarps Burien!

Here’s the statement, issued by the National Weather Service at 3:22pm Sunday, Nov. 15th:

Statement as of 3:22 PM PST on November 15, 2009

… Wind Advisory in effect from 6 PM this evening to 6 PM PST Monday…

… High wind watch in effect from Monday evening through Tuesday afternoon…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Wind Advisory… which is in effect from 6 PM this evening to 6 PM PST Monday. A high wind watch has also been issued. This high wind watch is in effect from Monday evening through Tuesday afternoon.

South winds of 25 to 35 mph with local gusts to 50 mph are expected to develop tonight and continue through much of the day Tuesday.

A deeper low is expected to move north through the coastal waters late Monday night and Tuesday. Widespread damaging winds of 40 mph with gusts to 60 mph are possible with this second deeper system.

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.

A high wind watch means conditions are favorable for damaging winds. High winds can topple trees… down power lines… and damage some structures. People in the watch area should prepare for the possibility of power outages.

The National Weather Service issued a “Special Weather Statement” at 4:30pm Thursday (Nov. 12th), warning of a “vigorous cold front” hitting the area Friday morning, bringing rain, wind and snow to the mountains.

Could this be the first breath of ol’ man winter?

Here’s the statement:

… Active weather day expected Friday…

A vigorous cold front will pass southeast across western Washington Friday morning… bringing Rain… Mountain snows… locally windy conditions and possibly snow showers to parts of The Lowlands.

South winds in advance of the front will increase late tonight into early Friday morning… mainly along the coast and parts of the northwest interior including the Admiralty Inlet region. Wind speeds in those areas are expected to reach 20 to 30 mph with a few gusts to 45 mph… mainly in and around the Island County area. After the front passes… winds will become west to southwest down the Strait of Juan de Fuca and across the northwest interior before diminishing through the afternoon. While below Wind Advisory criteria… wind of this strength could blow down a few tree limbs here and there with isolated power outages.

Colder air will surge in behind the front and lower already low snow levels across the region. During the morning hours ahead of the front the snow level will be around 1500 to 2000 feet. The snow level will then gradually drop through the day to around 500 feet by evening. This means some of the highest hills around the region could see a few snow showers late Friday into Friday evening. However… outside of the mountains or the immediate Cascade foothills… little to no snow accumulation is expected.

Dry and tranquil weather will return to the region late Friday night into Saturday.

The National Weather Service issued a “Special Weather Statement” Tuesday Nov. 3rd at 4:57pm, warning of “very strong” winds and rain hitting the area Thursday (Nov. 5th) with gusts possibly as high as 50mph.

Here’s the warning in all its glory:

Statement as of 4:57 PM PST on November 03, 2009

… Windy conditions for the mountains… coast… and northern interior Thursday…

A strong Pacific frontal system will impact western Washington on Thursday. Breezy southeasterly winds on Wednesday night will become south-southwest on Thursday for the north interior and coast increasing to 20 to 30 mph with gust as high as 50 mph.

Winds just above the surface will be very strong on Thursday. Ridgetop winds for the Olympics and lower south facing slopes will range from 45 to 65 mph with higher gusts possible. Ridgetop winds along the southern slopes of the Cascades will also be windy… with sustained winds up to 50 mph possible. The strong winds will also be accompanied by heavy rains… combining for dangerous conditions in the mountains.

So…considered yourself warned, and batten down the blue tarps hatches B-Town.

The National Weather Service has issued a “Special Weather Statement” alerting us all that, despite the recent sunny weather, the rain is a-comin’ back, starting Tuesday (Oct. 13th), so be sure to take heed an move all that crap in your yard and driveway back inside.

Or pull out the blue tarps so Burien can look like it should!

Here’s the statement, which was published at 4:44pm Sunday Oct. 11th:

Statement as of 4:44 PM PDT on October 11, 2009

… A series of Pacific storms will affect western Washington this week…

Columbus day will be a transition day from the recent cool and dry spell to an active… wet pattern. Look for a series of Pacific storms to affect the area starting Tuesday. The Tuesday system is expected to bring windy conditions to the coast and Cascade foothills as well as precipitation to the entire area. Chilly…east winds in the Cascade passes will mean that the precipitation will begin as snow or a rain and snow mix. However… significant snowfall amounts are unlikely.

Unsettled… wet conditions will persist on Wednesday as the region remains under the influence of a large area of low pressure over
the eastern Pacific. A much wetter system may affect the area during the latter part of the week.

Monitor forecasts from the National Weather Service in Seattle for updates on these upcoming events.

(Photo by Michael Brunk)

The National Weather Service issued a “Special Weather Statement” Sunday afternoon about a strong, windy weather system that’s predicted to hit the area Monday night.

We’re no Cliff Mass, but one thing that struck us was the mention of the pressure in this storm, rated at 980 millibars. As comparison, Hurricane Katrina was rated at 920 mb (lower is stronger), and the Inauguration Day storm of 1993 was rated between 972-980 mb (for a great read on northwest storm systems, with info on pressures, click here).

While it’s a powerful system, since the storm will weaken as it pushes inland, wind speeds are predicted to be between 20-35 mph, with gusts up to 45. There could be downed trees and power outages though, so you may want to batten down all those flowers you worked on Sunday.

Here’s the statement:

Statement as of 3:51 PM PDT on May 03, 2009

… Very windy conditions are expected to develop in the western Washington lowlands Monday night and continue through Tuesday morning…

A developing storm system in the central Pacific is expected to deepen to around 980 mb as it moves through the Washington offshore waters toward northern Vancouver Island Monday and Monday night. A strong frontal system associated with this low will move through western Washington Monday night.

A storm and frontal system of this magnitude is more typical of late fall or winter than of early may.

At this point it appears that south winds of 20 to 35 mph with gusts to 45 mph will develop Monday night as the front moves through and continue through the early morning hours on Tuesday. Many deciduous trees are now leafing. So winds of this magnitude may break some large branches and possibly topple a few trees.

Local power outages are possible.

Courtesy BTB Contributing Photographer Gregory Rehmke comes this great photo of a rainbow over Lake Burien, taken around 6:15pm Monday night as a squall of rain passed through as the sun kept shining.

Some refer to these somewhat odd weather moments where it’s raining while sunny out as “The Devli’s Getting Married” or “The Devil’s Beating His Wife” (we’re partial to the former).

We’re wondering…what do you call it? Have an unusual saying for it?

Please Comment below…

Snow squalls slammed the Burien area this afternoon, chock full of hail-like snow “pellets” which turned to regular flakes which have either lightened up or stopped entirely.

The question on everyone’s mind of course is:

Will the snow continue tonight?

Will school be delayed or closed tomorrow?

The National Weather Service says there’s a 90% chance of snow this afternoon, with lows hitting the mid-20s tonight, but only one to three inches accumulation:

AN ARCTIC FRONT IS PUSHING SOUTH THROUGH THE PUGET SOUND REGION BRINGING INTENSE SHOWERY WEATHER TO THE REGION. THE FRONT EXTENDS FROM THE KITSAP PENINSULA EAST AND ARCS NORTHWARD BACK INTO SNOHOMISH COUNTY WHERE IT HAS DROPPED A COUPLE OF INCHES ON THE EVERETT AREA. SOUTHWESTERLY FLOW AHEAD OF THE FRONT IS SPARKING INTENSE SHOWERS FOR THE SOUTHERN SOUND TOWARD THE CASCADES FOOTHILLS. HAIL…SNOW AND THE OCCASIONAL RUMBLE OF THUNDER MAY BE PRODUCED BY THESE SHOWERS ACROSS THE SOUTHERN SOUND. THE FRONT WILL PUSH THROUGH THE SEATTLE METRO AREA AROUND 2 PM DROPPING A DUSTING TO 2 INCHES OF SNOW IN THE HEAVIER SHOWERS. THE FRONT WILL PUSH TO THE SOUTHERN SOUND IN THE AFTERNOON…POTENTIALLY AFFECTING THE EVENING COMMUTE.

Tuesday should be warmer, and we don’t know yet about any school closures or delays; best bet is to check www.schoolreport.org first thing in the am.

This Afternoon: Snow showers. High near 39. North northwest wind around 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. Total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.

Tonight: Scattered snow showers before 11pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 26. North northwest wind between 9 and 14 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 41. Northeast wind around 6 mph.

Here’s a closeup of the “snow pellets” that pelted B-Town around 1:30pm Monday:

Yes, it’s snowing lightly in Burien with temps in the low 30s, but as of 7am Monday morning there are no reported school delays or closures.

Here’s the latest forecast from the National Weather Service – up to an inch of snow is possible:

Today: Snow showers likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 40. Calm wind becoming north northwest between 7 and 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Total daytime snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.

Tonight: A 40 percent chance of snow showers before 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. North northwest wind between 9 and 13 mph. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

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

According to the National Weather Service, a record amount of rainfall fell at Sea-Tac Airport on Wednesday, Jan. 7th – 2.29 inches!

This kicks the butt of the lame old record, which was a paltry 1.33 inches, set in 1996.

We’re going into a slight dry spell now, with just an 80% chance of rain Thursday, with more clearing on Friday.

However, the massive amounts of moisture that fell are now either overflowing rivers and streams, or overflowing the soil, and the danger for landslides is still high; here’s a list of signs to look for if you live in a known slide area (courtesy the USGS website)

• Springs, seeps, or saturated ground in areas that have not typically been wet before.
• New cracks or unusual bulges in the ground, street pavements or sidewalks.
• Soil moving away from foundations.
• Ancillary structures such as decks and patios tilting and/or moving relative to the main house.
• Tilting or cracking of concrete floors and foundations.
• Broken water lines and other underground utilities.
• Leaning telephone poles, trees, retaining walls or fences.
• Offset fence lines.
• Sunken or down-dropped road beds.
• Rapid increase in creek water levels, possibly accompanied by increased turbidity (soil content).
• Sudden decrease in creek water levels though rain is still falling or just recently stopped.
• Sticking doors and windows, and visible open spaces indicating jambs and frames out of plumb.
• A faint rumbling sound that increases in volume is noticeable as the landslide nears.
• Unusual sounds, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together, might indicate moving debris.

Also, the Cedar River in Renton was above its “flood stage” at 15.8 feet Thursday morning; flood stage is 12.0 feet. A Flood Warning remains in effect for it until Saturday evening, and its expected that the Cedar will crest around 16.4 feet at Noon Friday, flooding areas of Renton, including the airport.

Long story short: if you live in a valley, near a river or flood zone, or on a bluff above or near a slide zone, you’re SCREWED, as a major storm is moving in and the National Weather Service has issued THREE advisories:

1. Flood Watch (previously posted here)
2. Major Wind Advisory
3. “Special Weather Statement” on increased landslide danger

Here’s the Wind Advisory:

… Wind Advisory in effect until 10 am PST Wednesday…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Wind Advisory… which is in effect until 10 am PST Wednesday.

A strong storm which is bringing heavy rain to the mountains is also causing strong winds in the Seattle area. These winds will last off and on through the night and diminish Wednesday morning.

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 now, the “Special Weather Statement” regarding heavy rains and the potential for landslides:

… Heavy rain to dramatically increase risk for rainfall induced landslides…

Previous rainfall amounts have been around two to three inches in the Seattle area over the past 18 days. This has resulted in moderate levels of soil moisture around western Washington. Heavy rainfall of nearly two inches in 24 hours and over three inches in 48 hours is expected this afternoon through Wednesday night. This amount of rain will put extra pressure on soil instability leading to an increased risk of landslides in slide prone areas. A diminishing risk of landslides will continue for several days after the rain ends.

The slow melt of the snow that has fallen over the last couple of weeks has had an additional soil wetting effect. In areas outside of Seattle… storm total rainfall could be 3 to 8 inches in The Lowlands and 10 to 20 inches in the mountains. For these reasons the landslide risk is higher than the USGS charts would suggest.

The amount of rainfall forecast in 24 hours… on top of the cumulative rainfall over the last three weeks… will push western Washington soils to the point where they are above the USGS landslide index. When cumulative rainfall exceeds the USGS landslide cumulative threshold index… rainfall induced landslides are possible during intense rainfall or when rainfall amounts exceed two inches in 24 hours.

While the USGS rainfall thresholds were designed for the Seattle area of the Puget Sound… most of The Lowlands of western Washington are similarly susceptible to landslides caused by wet soils. Areas most susceptible to landslides under these conditions are steep coastal Bluffs and other steep hillsides.

For more information about current conditions… visit www.Weather.Gov/Seattle… select hydrology… and then scroll down for the link to the USGS landslide information Page.

If you need help, here’s some info that may come in handy:

• Sandbags are available for anyone in flood area – check this website here for details
• King County’s Flood Warning Center is operating; a recorded flood-information hotline is also updated each hour for citizens wanting information in flood areas:
  • Call 206-296-8200 or 1-800-945-9263
    
  • Citizens who need help interpreting flood information should call 206-296-4535 or 1-800-768-7932
• Problems on county-maintained roads can be reported by calling 206-296-8100 or 1-800-KC-ROADS

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!

There will be NO garbage/recycling collection in Burien Saturday or Sunday (12/27-28), with up to triple amounts of stuff accepted during the next pickup.

Here’s the latest update from Waste Management (more info available at their website here):

Saturday, December 27, 8:00 AM: Unsafe road conditions have unfortunately required Waste Management to once again postpone residential curbside collection in Snohomish County and most of King County, including Burien, Renton, and all East King County areas.

No residential collection will be provided on Sunday, as previously reported. Waste Management needs to preserve driver time for long work hours next week as we clean up the accumulated material resulting from numerous collection delays.

King County residents outside the City of Seattle may take garbage and recycling to King County transfer stations, including:

• Bow Lake in Tukwila
• Enumclaw
• Renton
• Factoria
• Houghton
• Shoreline

Call 206-296-4466 or visit http://your.kingcounty.gov/solidwaste/facilities/transfer.asp for addresses and hours.

Remove Snow Accumulation. To keep containers accessible, please remove snow and extra material from around or on top of them.

Clear Storm Drains to Prevent Street Flooding: As snow melts, water run-off can result in flooding, which further impedes collection. Please clear storm drains of snow and debris to prevent flooding.

Tips for Extra Material Storage and Set Out: Waste Management suggests that residents use the following options for storing and setting out extra materials:

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)

Only patches of snow remain in the Burien area Saturday (some side roads may still be slushy), and proof that it is melting lies above in the sad crime scene photo of a one-time Snowman’s remains found on an area lawn.

But fear not B-Towners, for we all know that Frosty will return again.

The only question remains: how soon?

What we do know is:

• The rain will continue for the next several days with highs in the 40s.
• A Flood Watch is still in effect for small streams in King County; here’s the warning from the National Weather Service:

Rain locally heavy at times will persist through tonight. Rainfall amounts of a half to one inch with locally higher amounts on the coast are likely by Sunday morning. This combined with melting snow across The Lowlands or elevations below 2000 feet will likely result in some urban or small stream flooding. Residents in urban areas are strongly encouraged to clear any blockages of storms drains before it causes flooding problems.

Excessive runoff from rain and snow melt will cause ponding of water on highways… streets and underpasses… in urban areas with poor or overwhelmed drainage… and will also cause elevated levels on small creeks and streams.

Do not underestimate the power of flood waters. Only a few inches of rapidly flowing water can quickly carry away your vehicle.

Sure, there aren’t any major rivers running through the Burien area, but we do have some significant creeks (ie: Miller & Walker Creeks), so everyone should make sure to clear any storm drains near your home, and if you’re near any of the above-mentioned creeks, please check on them and make sure they’re flowing well.

Here’s the official Flood Watch warning:

… Flood Watch remains in effect through Sunday morning…

* a Pacific storm will bring warmer air and raise the snow level significantly. The combination of increasing southerly winds… milder temperatures… and rain on snow will result in rapid snow melt across The Lowlands tonight and Saturday. There is also the potential for minor flooding of the Skokomish River Saturday as the snow level climbs to near 5000 feet on the olympic range.

* The combination of rain and melting snow across The Lowlands could result in urban and small stream flooding… especially in those areas where a foot or more of snow was still on the ground. Snow and ice may result in clogging of storm drains that could result in flooding of streets and… possibly…homes and businesses.

* The Chehalis river and its tributaries could also approach or exceed flood stage. Up to two feet of snow covers the Chehalis watershed and it will all likely melt by Sunday. That water… along with the rain… will cause the rivers of southwest Washington to rise significantly.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Flood Watch means conditions are favorable for flooding but flooding is not imminent or occurring. Monitor the latest forecasts from the National Weather Service and be ready to act quickly if flooding is observed or a warning is issued.

And remember – if you have any interesting weather-related photos to share, please either email us or add ‘em to our Flickr Group so we can share them!

Garbage/Recycling provider Waste Management says that there will be NO pickups Friday, Dec. 26th in the Burien area, although they will allow “up to triple volume accepted next regular collection day for each missed curbside container.”

Here are some snippets from their latest update:

Holiday Collection Schedule Friday and Saturday weeks of Dec 25 & Jan 1:

Friday, December 26:
(although there will be no pickup today…), Waste Management’s Customer Service Center will be open from 8 AM – 5 PM:

• Waste Management Customer Service website
• Call 1-800 592-9995

Because of weather delays, we expect phone lines to be extremely busy, resulting in long waits.  The alternatives below will help customers get information quickly:

• Double Triple volume will be accepted on the next regular collection day for each missed residential container. If a container is missed twice, triple volume will apply.
• If you have too much material to fit in your containers, check our Tips for Managing Extra Garbage and Recycling.

You can e-mail Customer Service regarding specific concerns by locating your city or county contact address on the menu provided.

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

More BTB Reader photos to share – first, Jessica Gran’s pics of a homemade igloo; she says:

“The kids had enough snow to make an igloo, with two brick walls protecting the entry way.

The ultimate fortress for a snowball fight!”

Then, from Virginia in the Hurstwood neighborhood comes this photo of one of her lit-up lawn reindeers doing its best “ostrich impression” with its head in the snow:

Have any cool snow/ice photos to share?

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

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.

Here are some more great BTB Reader snow photos culled from our Flickr Pool:

“Looked like steam was rising out of the water.” Photo by B-TownMom.

“Checking out how the B-Town Blog car held up under the snow.”
Photo by B-TownMom.

And here’s a slideshow of snow on Lake Burien from BTB Reader Gregory Rehmke:

Have any cool snow/ice photos to share?

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

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)

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

Sea-Tac Airport is apparently jammed full of people stuck as the result of numerous flight cancellations and delays.

Apparently Alaska and Horizon Airlines resumed limited service Monday after thousands of stranded travelers spent the night at the airport, where hundreds of flights have been canceled since Friday.

If you’ve got travel plans and want to get the latest information, we recommend a two-pronged approach using both your telephone and internet:

1. Call your airline via the number listed below (or on your itinerary/ticket).
2. At the same time, try accessing the Port of Seattle’s travel info website or your specific airline’s website.
   

So basically, you’ll have a phone in your ear while you surf the web, and eventually you’ll either get through or you’ll get your update. Just don’t give up.

Here’s the latest update from the Port of Seattle (access their airport travel info website here):

The airlines continue to face a number of challenges during this weather event.

Many flights been canceled.  Please check your flight before coming to Sea-Tac Airport.

See contact information below:

• Aeromexico 800 237-6639
• Air Canada (including Air Canada regional airlines) 800 247-2262
• Air France 800 237-2747
• AirTran Airways 800-247-8726
• Alaska Airlines 800 426-0333
• American Airlines 800 433-7300
• Asiana Airlines 800 227-4262
• British Airways 800 247-9297
• Continental Airlines 800 525-0280
• Delta Air Lines 800 221-1212
• EVA Air 800 695-1188
• Frontier Airlines 800 432-1359
• Hainan Airlines 888 688-8813
• Hawaiian Airlines 800 367-5320
• Horizon Air 800 547-9308
• JetBlue Airways 1-800-JETBLUE
• Korean Air 800-438-5000, (206) 241-1576
• Lufthansa Airlines 800 399-LUFT
• Midwest Airlines 800 452-2022
• Northwest Airlines 800 225-2525
• Scandinavian Airlines 800 221-2350
• Southwest Airlines 800 435-9792
• Sun Country Airlines 800 359-6786
• United Airlines (including United Express) 800 241-6522
• US Airways 800 428-4322
• Virgin America 877 359-8474

Some great night-time photos courtesy of BTB Readers Brooke & Andrea Trisler, taken in Burien Sunday Dec. 21, 2008:

Welcome to Bedford Falls – er, we mean Olde Burien.
You practically expect to see Jimmy Stewart running
down the street yelling at everyone…

There’s just something about snow, neon and
holiday lights at night that warm your heart…

Have any cool snow/ice photos to share?

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

5:30pm 12/21 UPDATE: Snow’s still falling, and by our estimations a grand total of 7-1/2 inches are on the ground now near our home office. That means that an additional 2-1/2 to 3 inches fell since yesterday afternoon, including a hard layer of ice that’s now under about 1-2 inches of snow.

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.

Here’s a reminder from BTB Reader Stephanie Breslin, who sent us the photo above – please refill your bird feeders during winter weather:

This might be a good time to remind people to fill their bird feeders and as is demonstrated here check them to make sure they didn’t ice up over night!

The normal food source for our feathered friends under the ice and snow or frozen on the trees…

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!

We often glance out the window and check for snow by looking up at the street light in front of our house to see if there are still flakes falling.

Imagine our surprise when we looked up around 10pm Saturday night (Dec. 20th) to see this – icicles forming on the actual street light itself:

Here’s the latest National Weather Service Winter Storm Warning:

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 10 am PST Sunday.

Periods of snow will continue across the area overnight. Storm total snowfall amounts of 6 to 12 inches are likely… with  lesser amounts along the I-5 corridor from Tacoma northward. Localized gusty winds will also result in some blowing snow.

The snow has changed over to freezing rain on the central coast and will probably change over to sleet or freezing rain over the southwest interior… including the lower Chehalis valley… later tonight or Sunday morning. Elsewhere snow will continue through Sunday morning.

As we were returning (slowly of course) on Sylvester Road from an all-day excursion to the eastside, we were nearly run off the road by an approaching large truck-like vehicle in the opposite lane.

Turns out it was a snowplow.

An actual snowplow.

Plowing the snow.

In Brrrien!

As you may recall from a report we did on Thursday (Dec. 18th), several Burien-area residents were upset enough with the previous lack of city snowplowing and road care that they posted numerous rants on Craigslist.

Speaking of Mr. Plow, the City of Seattle sends us this press release about their road-clearing efforts, which we’ve truncated here:

At a briefing this evening at the Emergency Operations Center, Mayor Greg Nickels announced that a fleet of 27 snow plows are clearing Seattle roads and seven utility repair crews stand ready to respond as a winter storm hits the region.

The city of Seattle activated its Emergency Operations Center at 2 pm on Saturday, coordinating responses by the Department of Transportation, Seattle City Light, Seattle Public Utilities, Human Services, Police, Fire and Parks departments.

Snow and ice removal crews will continue clearing arterial roads through the night. Road conditions may become icy tonight as temperatures drop. Two trucks will be dedicated to the West Seattle Bridge and the Alaskan Way Viaduct. The Seattle Department of Transportation is urging residents only to drive if necessary.

A primary concern tonight is expected to be high winds, particular in east King County. At this hour, there are no power outages within the city of Seattle, but City Light is prepared to call in as many crews as needed if conditions change.

Three severe weather shelters remain open at least through Monday night: City Hall, Frye Hotel, and Seattle Center Pavilion B. Shelter beds are still available. Last night, 143 people stayed at the three shelters. During the day, Seattle residents can find warm, public space at Parks Department community centers and the Seattle Center. The following community centers will be open on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.: Garfield Community Center, Rainier Beach Community Center, South Park Community Center, Rainier Community Center and Hiawatha Community Center.

Seattle’s recycling and garbage transfer stations will be closed tomorrow. Solid waste customers who were missed for pickup today should bring in their containers until next week.

Not to be outdone, the City of Burien issued its own safety alert this afternoon:

SEVERE WEATHER ALERT: Snow & high winds are predicted for today, and Burien residents are urged to be prepared for possible power outages and extreme cold.

The City of Burien is monitoring conditions and will post updated information as it becomes available to the City website (www.burienwa.gov).

All Parks & Recreation programs and facility rentals are canceled. Metro Bus Service is severely impacted.

For complete and up-to-date information regarding this severe storm, visit the National Weather Service website at www.weather.gov/seattle.

Of course we went to the city’s website, expecting to see more detailed info, but alas, the most recent update was from yesterday (Fri. 12/19). Hmmm…

Also, here’s the latest Winter Storm Warning from our friends at the National Weather Service:

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 10 am PST Sunday.

Another round of heavy snow is expected tonight through Sunday morning. Heaviest snow will occur on the Kitsap peninsula… along Hood Canal… and from Olympia and Chehalis west to the central coast near Ocean Shores. 10 to 18 inches of snow is expected close to the Hood Canal. Other locations within this area should get 5 to 12 inches of snow.

Along the I-5 Corridor North of Tacoma… including Seattle and Everett… storm total snowfall of 4 to 8 inches is expected. In general… lighter amounts will occur near the Cascade foothills with heavier amounts farther west along the shores of Puget Sound. Some parts of eastern King County… where wind is a big threat… will receive 1 inch or less of snowfall.

Late tonight into Sunday morning… freezing rain is possible in Grays Harbor County and the lower Chehalis valley. If more precipitation occurs in the form of freezing rain than snow…  then an ice storm would be possible with ice accumulations in excess of one quarter of an inch. Ice storms are capable of causing power lines and large tree branches to snap and cause major travel disruptions.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow… sleet… and ice are expected or occurring. Strong winds are also possible. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.

And the B-Town Blog Weather Rock™’s first-hand (or rock) report is thus:

• As of 7pm 12/20, 1-inch of new snow has accumulated since the storm moved in this afternoon. We now have between 5-7 inches of snow here, and growing.
• The new snow is icier, powdery, and harder to make snowballs and snowpeople with. Dang.
• This type of icy snow sparkles in the basking glow of the still-functioning street lights. Purdy.
• The Weather Rock™ predicts 3-5 inches will fall overnight.
• The Weather Rock™ has detected little or no wind. Yet.
• Our new kerosene heater is still sitting in its box, awaiting emergency use for potential power outages.
• Some sleet is mixed in with this batch of precipitation – evidenced as it clumped up quickly into freezing messes on the windshield as we drove. Is this a sign of a potential “ice storm” that may be developing? Stay tuned…

“Woo! Snow happens even in Burien” by Flickr Photog Crocidillicus

The big storm’s a-comin’ folks, and should hit sometime tonight and continue through Sunday morning.

Most likely there will be significant snowfall in the Burien area (4-8 more inches), since we lie in the zone where the storm will hang out. Also be prepared, as there will be high winds and possibly sleet, which means ice on power lines, tree branches, etc. and you know what that means – power outages.

Here’s the Weather Advisory as of Saturday 12/20/08 at 5:18am:

The Winter Storm Warning is now in effect from 4 PM this afternoon to 10 am PST Sunday.

A major winter storm is on tap for later today into Sunday. Heavy snow is expected to develop along the coast this afternoon and then spread into the interior of western Washington early this evening. Heaviest snow will occur on the Kitsap peninsula… along Hood Canal… and from Olympia and Chehalis west to the central coast near Ocean Shores. 10 to 18 inches of snow is expected close to the Hood Canal. Other locations within this area should get 5 to 12 inches of snow.

Along the I-5 Corridor North of Tacoma… including Seattle and Everett… storm total snowfall of 4 to 8 inches is expected. In general… lighter amounts will occur near the Cascade foothills with heavier amounts farther west along the shores of Puget Sound. Some parts of eastern King County… where wind is a big threat… will receive 1 inch or less of snowfall. The heaviest snowfall is expected between 7 PM tonight and 4 am Sunday morning.

Late tonight into Sunday morning… locations from Tacoma on south through Lewis County and west to the coast the precipitation could possibly change over to sleet or freezing rain. Freezing rain is most likely in Grays Harbor County and the lower Chehalis valley. If more precipitation occurs in the form of freezing rain than snow… then an ice storm would be possible with ice accumulations in excess of one quarter of an inch. This is not a certainty but should be kept in mind. Ice storms are capable of causing power lines and large tree branches to snap and cause major travel disruptions.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow… sleet… and ice are expected or occurring. Strong winds are also possible. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.

Have any cool snow/ice photos to share?

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

A big new winter storm is barreling towards us, and will strike sometime Saturday, Dec. 20th, possibly around “dinner time,” possibly earlier.

I heard a live broadcast on the radio thingy this afternoon from a spokesman for the National Weather Service, and what he said made me drive to McLendon’s and buy a kerosene heater. He used phrases like “major event” “up to 75-90 mph gusts” and this clincher: “possible life-threatening situation in places.”

Then I harkened back to two previous winter events: one in 1995 when power was out for about a week, and the other from two years ago when it was out for 4-1/2 days.

I have a feeling I’ll be thanking McLendon’s come Sunday night.

Here’s the latest winter weather advisory (as of 3:59pm 12/19/08) courtesy the National Weather Service:

… Winter Storm Warning in effect from 4 PM Saturday to 4 PM PST Sunday…

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Storm Warning… which is in effect from 4 PM Saturday to 4 PM PST Sunday. The Winter Storm Watch is no longer in effect.

A major winter storm is on tap this weekend. Heavy snow is expected to develop along the coast on Saturday afternoon and then spread into the interior of western Washington early Saturday evening. Heaviest snow will occur on the Kitsap peninsula… along Hood Canal… and from Olympia and Chehalis west to the central coast near Ocean Shores. 10 to 18 inches of snow is expected close to Hood Canal. Other locations within this area should get 5 to 12 inches of snow.

Along the I-5 Corridor North of Tacoma… including Seattle and Everett… storm-total snowfall of 4 to 8 inches is expected. Western Skagit and Whatcom counties should receive about 3 to 5 inches of snow. In general… lighter amounts will occur near the Cascade foothills with heavier amounts further west along the shores of Puget Sound. Some parts of eastern King County… where wind is a big threat… will receive 1 inch or less of snowfall.

Late Saturday night and Sunday morning… locations from Tacoma on south through Lewis County and west to the coast are expected to mix with sleet and freezing rain. Freezing rain is most likely in Grays Harbor County and the lower Chehalis valley. If more precipitation occurs in the form of freezing rain than snow… then an ice storm would be possible with ice accumulations in excess of one-quarter inch. This is not a certainty but should be kept in mind. Ice storms are capable of causing power lines and large tree branches to snap and cause major travel disruptions.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow… sleet… and ice are expected or occurring. Strong winds are also possible. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.

Just when you thought the worst was over comes this brand spankin’ new Winter Weather Advisory (as of 4:58 12/18/08)  from the National Weather Service – basically, another, even more powerful storm is coming this weekend, with snow, sleet and lots of wind:

… Major winter storm should impact western Washington from late Saturday afternoon through Sunday…

After the current round of snow showers is gone… the next weather system to impact western Washington will arrive on the coast on Saturday afternoon and spread inland on Saturday night. This system will contain a lot of moisture and should bring a wide variety of winter weather conditions to all of western Washington.

Perhaps the most significant impact will be potentially destructive winds in the Cascades and the east Puget Sound lowlands. See the high wind watch issued by this office.

This system will contain a lot of moisture as it spreads over the cold air mass in place. Precipitation should first start in the form of snow as it spreads inland. Heaviest snow amounts should take place along the central coast… in the lower Chehalis valley… over the Kitsap peninsula and the southwest interior.

Snowfall totals could exceed 6 inches for many locations with a few locations reaching a foot in a few places. Strong east winds could then cause blowing and drifting of snow.

Elsewhere… including the Seattle-Tacoma-Everett corridor… snow accumulations are expected but amounts will be less.

Later Saturday night and Sunday morning… a layer of warm air aloft will overspread sub-freezing air at the surface. This could cause snow to mix with or change to sleet and freezing rain… mainly south of a line from Ocean Shores to Everett. If more precipitation falls in the form of freezing rain as opposed to snow… then significant icing in excess of one-quarter inch would be possible in these areas. Ice accumulations of this magnitude can cause power lines to snap… bring down large tree branches… and cause widespread travel disruptions.

Temperatures on Sunday afternoon are forecast to rise a little above freezing for most of the western Washington lowlands… so the threat of freezing rain would end at that time.

This has the potential to be a significant winter storm for much of western Washington. Many of the exact details remain uncertain… so check back for the latest forecasts… watches and warnings as the details of this event become more solid.

Regardless of the details… be prepared for winter weather and significant weather-related disruptions this weekend starting Saturday afternoon.

Note how the forecast mentions “south of a line from Ocean Shores to Everett”?

Here’s a map of that line, and notice where Burien is located:

So…are you ready for this one?

“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.

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.