West Seattle snow: Thursday morning updates

(THIS WAS THE MORNING POST – CLICK HERE FOR AFTERNOON COVERAGE. From earlier: School closures so far (as of 11:20 am): Seattle Public Schools, Holy Rosary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Hope Lutheran, West Seattle Montessori, Holy Family in White Center, Seattle Lutheran High School, Westside School, West Seattle Christian Preschool, Shorewood Christian, elementaries in Highline Public Schools, South Seattle Community College, elementary on Vashon, all closed. School delays: Vashon middle and high schools, 2 hours late; Highline middle and high schools are 1 hour late)

Finally happened. We’re on live-update watch now. More shortly. No school changes yet; we’re watching schoolreport.org among other places.

5:29 AM UPDATE: Seattle Public Schools are CLOSED for the day. Meteorologist on the radio describes this as a “band of showers.” Driving is dangerous right now since this is fresh, buses too according to a comment that just came in. And we just had THUNDER AND LIGHTNING in Upper Fauntleroy. Holy Rosary School is closed. Our Lady of Guadalupe is closed. Vashon School District, 2 hours late. Highline Public Schools, 1 hour late. (Got a closure? E-mail us at editor@westseattleblog.com or call 206-293-6302)

5:47 AM UPDATE: Just heard a KING 5 producer on the phone on her station say she couldn’t get out of West Seattle via Delridge – undrivable at the moment – reportedly blocked by stuck buses. (We have the live bridge-cam up at the top of this post, also relisting school closures there too as they come in, as well as here in the continuing updates.) Another school delay: South Seattle Community College, 10 am start. Remember we have the bridge cam “live” pic (refresh for latest) atop this post; more West Seattle-relevant cams on our Traffic page. I-5 ramp on that page looks totally white.

5:56 AM UPDATE: Metro has updated its “adverse weather” page with bus routes that are on reroute. See the list here. It includes the 21, 22 (“not operating on 41st SW – ice” says the list), 23, 37, 53, 125, 128 (not entering the SSCC campus for those last two), and many others areawide.

6:03 AM UPDATE: Hope Lutheran School CLOSED for the day. Thanks to Chris for sending this photo of the buses in trouble on Delridge onramp to The Bridge:

West Seattle Montessori just called – CLOSED for the day, added to our running list at the TOP of this post (above the “live” bridge pic). Via Facebook (“friend” us at WS Blog), Talani at Stor-More Self-Storage (WSB sponsor) sends this photo of Avalon from Yancy (that’s the Tillicum Village HQ and gift shop in the background) and says it’s “solid white,” very treacherous:

Scanner says “it’s all turning to ice now … going to assume there will be accidents all over the place.” They can’t even get to accidents that are blocking or involve injuries, “we’re not going to car-in-the-ditch stuff” says dispatcher.

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE REST OF OUR AS-IT-HAPPENED COVERAGE:

6:14 AM UPDATE: Scanner to everyone: “If you don’t already have chains on, make your way to someplace that you can put them on immediately.” Thanks to Katie for sending word that Holy Family School in White Center is CLOSED too.

6:25 AM UPDATE: Add to the list of CLOSED schools (which is all in one place at the very TOP of this post) – Seattle Lutheran High School. The Metro reroute list keeps growing. Cami says she’s heard word of a crash on ramp to I-5 from West Seattle Bridge.

6:30 AM UPDATE: Lots of firsthand reports in the comments (thank you!) – also some coming in via e-mail, like this one:

No 51 shuttle or 57 bus in sight this morning. Waited on the street since 5:15 a.m. Walked over to Admiral Way for the 56. At 5:55 a.m. a car stopped and told me the bus was stalled at the bottom of Admiral. Waited an hour and gave up. On 50th SW we have well over an inch of snow already.

Here’s another view of 35th/Avalon, looking northeast, thanks to Charles:

Photos welcome, editor@westseattleblog.com, also via Facebook, alert us at WS Blog. Here’s the state traffic cam for West Seattle Bridge ramp to I-5 – backup would seem to verify that crash/blocking report.

6:40 AM UPDATE: In comments, WSTEE says, “Viaduct was total nightmare.” Talani sent video from Avalon/Yancy a short time ago; we reuploaded to Blip so you can watch here (she narrates, too).

6:49 AM UPDATE: In addition to school closures (full updated list AT TOP OF THIS POST), we are also interested in major business/government closures. Via Twitter, the local Coast Guard district says its offices at the Jackson Federal Building downtown will be closed. In comments, we have sanding truck/snowplow sightings at 45th/Admiral and 9th/Highland Park Way. Handy traffic link (this is always atop our Traffic page too) – area blocking incidents (doesn’t get down to city streets but major roads regionally are listed when problematic).

7 AM UPDATE: Just stepped outside for a pic. About 2″ here in Upper Fauntleroy. California/Thistle vicinity not plowed so far. From comments – Carole says King County Superior Court is on a 2-hour delay, here and in Kent. Morgan hill update (west of 35th) from Cindi Barker – 128 bus just went by westbound (downhill). From the WSB Forums, Gina says the guy who’s going to run to all 18 Seattle library branches (including the ones over here) is still planning to do it today. Read more here. Still monitoring radio, TV, scanner – “traffic nightmares out there” is heard a lot.

7:09 AM UPDATE: Susie says those two buses are still stuck on Delridge onramp to eastbound bridge. (See photo earlier in this post.) WSDOT reiterates that entire Seattle/Eastside highway network is a mess. Learned via a Twitter friend that Pacific Science Center downtown has closed for the day. Eastbound on West Seattle Bridge apparently NOW CLOSED because of bus vs. semi crash, per KIRO Radio. Not sure where that is, though – not visible YET in the live cameras. From Metro “adverse weather” page: Some buses in other areas of the city now running on “unpublished reroutes.” Not everything is closed – just got this from Josh Sutton at West Seattle Family YMCA (WSB sponsor):

>Both Fauntleroy & West Seattle YMCA branches are open (we have staff who can walk in), classes and programs are limited, but if you don’t get enough exercise shoveling snow, come on by!

“Walk” seems to be the key word there, at least until the plows make it around (keep posting/sending your sightings).

7:19 AM UPDATE: Shorewood Christian School opening at 10:30 am. Westside School is CLOSED. Adding to full list of closures/delays atop this post. Radio report reiterates crash closing eastbound West Seattle Bridge – JUST STAY AWAY. Also, this from comments, a WSB’er who got a call from spouse:

she’s stuck eastbound on the spokane st viaduct, she says cars are spun out everywhere, and the SPD is routing traffic westbound in the eastbound lanes and routing them off on the 4th ave s exit.

West Seattle Christian Preschool also CLOSED. Traffic cams show westbound bridge definitely open, at least in the camera picture area west of 99.

7:34 AM UPDATE: Clarification, eastbound bridge “will” be shut down though isn’t yet (per KIRO radio), and Seattle Police say JUST STAY AWAY FROM THE BRIDGE tfn. Even some of the arterials haven’t been plowed yet – just stepped out for this California/Thistle pic (earlier one didn’t come out), neither street’s been touched:

OK, now the radio says eastbound bridge will NOT be closed. Meteorologist interview – Better chance than usual of a white Christmas, though he’s “not ready” to say 50-50 chance, yet.

7:48 AM UPDATE: Bus report just texted (2062936302@vtext.com) by Margie: “I am on the 7 am 55 from Admiral, we skipped 35th due to bus graveyard, we are at about Sears on the viaduct, the bus is packed but our awesome driver was a rock star at navigating The Bridge.” Again, bus riders, Metro is continually updating the reroute list and that includes some “unpublished” (aka improv) reroutes. The bridge status reports keep seesawing so we just say, LOOK AT THE CAMERAS (both eastbound and westbound are in this post and on the Traffic page) – or better yet, JUST DON’T DRIVE. Snow’s light but still steady, by the way, if you’re not near a window. This just in from Josh at Endolyne uphill from Fauntleroy ferry dock:

Three buses total sitting or stuck on the hillside at intersection. All chained, but stuck or choosing to stay put. Just drove California to Morgan, Fauntleroy Way to here. Lots of folks waiting for busses, especially at Morgan Thriftway. Two Vashon buses were chained, moving and headed north towards town. Original Bakery open (as were many coffee shops along the way). Donuts coming out now;)

Here’s Josh’s photo looking east (uphill) from the Endolyne businesses:

Meantime, SCHOOL STATUS CHANGE for Shorewood Christian School – they are now CLOSED. Radio traffic guy insists West Seattle Bridge closed now both ways “at Columbian Way” (which is the far east end).
8:04 AM UPDATE: Linda Thielke from Metro is on the radio saying all buses are chained but “our service is significantly disrupted” and mentions West Seattle as particular trouble spot. From Chris, who sent us the photo earlier of the bus trouble that closed the Delridge onramp to The Bridge very early:

The Delridge ramp has been cleared, but is still closed due to compact snow and ice. Everyone on Deleidge is pouring onto the low Bridge which is seeing pretty heavy (but moving) traffic. Chains definitely recommended for Delridge corridor. Appears that Metro 120/125 is rerouting onto low bridge.

Shortly afterward, another bus got stuck on Delridge ramp, and Chris sent this photo:

Just in, Tilden School is OPEN “for those who can get there safely.” Also, just got a note reminding us about the bus status site at mybus.org.

8:23 AM UPDATE: Two more pix – one from Ashton of Morgan Junction-based ExpeditionTrips.com, “looking south (down Fauntleroy Way) toward the Fauntleroy ferry terminal” – he says few cars are out:

And not far from WSB HQ in Upper Fauntleroy, Dave sends this pic with the caption “happens to the best of us”:

Multiple WSB’er reports say Myers Way is closed (the hill down to 509 east of White Center). Gotta say this again, though – broadcast reports keep saying the West Seattle Bridge is “closed.” Apparently it IS CLOSED AT THE I-5 END. But cameras show (a few) cars on THIS end of it (see the Traffic page, or higher up in this post). All reports say AVOID IT, but if you absolutely MUST get out of West Seattle, it appears you can at least get to The Viaduct from The Bridge (though don’t try the Delridge onramp, that’s had trouble).

8:37 AM UPDATE: From SDOT:

The full force of SDOT trucks have been out treating the in-bound major arterials
since 3:30 this morning. Earlier the snow fell heaviest south of the city and into downtown, but is now increasing in the north end. An accident has been blocking the eastbound on-ramp to the high-level West Seattle Bridge; however the westbound lanes are open. Crews will remain working throughout the day.

Tom F sends this photo of people waiting for the bus at 35th/Thistle:

Seattle Design Commission meeting at City Hall today is canceled. Downtown-bound, Mark sent this from the 55: “We’re on Avalon headed down the hill at about two mph. Bus driver is laughing.”

8:46 AM UPDATE: Highline Public Schools has changed its status – closing all elementary schools, but keeping middle/high schools open “1 hour late.” Updating our comprehensive school list at the very TOP of this post (if you have private-school info that’s not there, let us know – editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks). VB sends word that “US District Court & US Bankruptcy Court, including Pretrail & Probation, closed for the day. Via Twitter, Gatewood resident Pam from Nerd’s Eye View says “Advice from an Austrian, go outside and flip up your windshield wiper blades so they don’t freeze to the windshield.” Got word from Stephen that there’s no Microsoft Connector shuttle service today.

9 AM UPDATE: WSB contributing photojournalist Christopher Boffoli reports from The Junction area:

California is snow over slush. Very slippery. Volume of traffic is way down but too many people in SUVs are driving too fast for conditions. Oregon is packed snow but is empty as no one seems to be risking it.

If you have Thursday/Friday trash pickup – here’s a city advisory. Meantime, another update from Mark on the 55: “We’re across the low bridge and on First now. Just passed Lander. Just about there!” From WSDOT via Twitter, ferries are running on time. Just in from Saney – snowplow sighting at California/Hanford:

9:18 AM UPDATE: These are snow “showers”? Pretty serious at WSB HQ at the moment. Anyway, just got a report from Sharonn Meeks in Fairmount – first, this photo, which normally would be looking northeast toward downtown (just south of The Triangle) – note the insects don’t seem to be snowphobes:

Since sending that photo, Sharonn headed downhill, where she reports that if you need car help, the Midas and Goodyear places are open. From further west, Jackie Bollen reports: “No entry onto SW Lander from Admiral!” (map) and sent photographic proof:

Voice of frustration on the scanner – “vehicles that don’t know the meaning of the word ‘stop’.”

9:27 AM UPDATE: From Seattle Parks and Recreation:

Seattle Parks and Recreation’s facilities, including community centers, pools, environmental learning centers, Amy Yee Tennis Center and Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center are open, but all regular programming has been canceled.

Public golf courses, including Jackson Park, Interbay, West Seattle and Jefferson Park are closed for golf, but are open for sledding.

Parks cautions visitors to Green Lake Park that while there is ice on the lake, it will not bear weight, and is not safe to walk on. For more information about the center near you, please call that
facility directly

“D” just called from Highland Park – 15th/Henderson (map) blocked – must be the same jackknifed Metro bus that has just been mentioned on the scanner. She adds, “Entirely too many cars out here.”

9:41 AM UPDATE: In case you are wondering, we will be checking on the status of a couple of major events scheduled for tonight – Design Review meeting on The Kenney and 4502 42nd SW, and Cooper School meeting. Will post here as soon as we get word on either. If you are just joining our weather coverage today, by the way, welcome, and note that our format is, we keep one long post going till about noon; then we will start a new one. So you can bookmark this or keep refreshing it, etc., till then, as we will continue to update frequently with info and photos (and lots of info and eyewitness reports coming in via comments too – THANKS!!! to everyone). Meanwhile — Ron Angeles sends word of a change in the city’s Neighborhood Services Centers today: His NSC, on Delridge, is CLOSED. The Southwest NSC in The Junction will open late, 12:30 pm. And a TV news sighting from Diane – KOMO News just seen passing 37th/Hinds. (Diane also says the 51 didn’t go by her house today but wasn’t listed on Metro reroute page, either. Remember the mybus.org link we mentioned earlier, if you’re checking on a bus.)

9:52 AM UPDATE: Snow just got heavy up here again. Snow-shoveling review from co-publisher Patrick, who is a Colorado native: “Light, fluffy stuff, so it’s not sticking to the pavement beneath.” Photo just in from Chris, overview from 6000 block of 21st SW:

Ann C has a few more details on the Metro bus situation at 15th/Henderson that “D” reported – articulated bus slid into a parked car. Sander/plow seen in the area but “didn’t do much good.” Just got pix from Austin, looking downtown-ward from the Fauntleroy walkover on The Bridge approach:

From that picture and the traffic cameras, it’s clear The Bridge has been plowed/sanded. Heard on the scanner: Don’t expect police to come out to a crash. Hit and run, property damage, whatever – file a report by phone or online, they are answering injury-involved crashes as first priority. Meantime, a bridge etc. update from SDOT; read it here. Business report from comments: Alki Urban Market is closed. Adding some Junction photos just in from WSB contributing photojournalist Christopher Boffoli – first, Walk All Ways looked more like Gawk All Ways:

Another angle:

About a mile east of there, multiple reports (including KIRO TV) of a Metro bus causing trouble on 35th SW near the viewpoint/Providence Mount St. Vincent. Vickie, meantime, just saw someone southbound on California at Charlestown (map) – on cross-country skis, on the sidewalk!

10:27 AM UPDATE: Latest from Talani at Stor-More on Yancy east of Avalon, via Facebook (we’re WS Blog):

tor-More is open handing out free hot chocolate, coffee and mochas…but we have snow piled up everywhere…we’ve been at shoveling for like over 4 hours…and everywhere we blow or shovel just turns white again…it’s crazy…on Yancy, very few cars are trying it, but we see a lot more hikers and walkers and runners…more headed to the bus stop…I’d totally say we’re snowed in over here…the big question remaining…will our mailman come??? UPS??? Fedex??? We usually see them all every day, so far, none of them have come…”

Scanner: Uphill east of Morgan Junction, they’re going to stop traffic on Morgan hill, westbound at 39th.

10:44 AM UPDATE: New photo, 4″ of snow at 50th/Hanford (map):

And from Sharonn Meeks in Fairmount, 37th SW is now CLOSED from The Mount to Alaska (map):

Just heard on the scanner, a backlog of buses waiting to get chained up (exactly where, we don’t know). And just in from Brian Judd at High Point Community Center:

High Point is open! Basketball practices and other programs are canceled, but we have a warm facility for people and open gymnasium for kids to drop-in.

10:51 AM UPDATE: Official word from the city – tonight’s Design Review Board meeting for The Kenney and 4502 42nd SW ***is CANCELED*** … please share that word with anyone who might have been interested. We will make a separate post too. We’ll let you know when it’s rescheduled. Now, as for the forecast – the latest discussion is up, with a look into the weekend and even part of next week; read it here.

11:05 AM UPDATE: Some more pix – first, Carole in North Delridge with a hummingbird (here’s the link to a WSB Forum discussion earlier regarding frozen feeders and helping hummingbirds):

Also from North Delridge, Skylark Club and Cafe (WSB sponsor) is CLOSED FOR LUNCH, according to this message from owner Jessie via Facebook:

Our kitchen manager (and scheduled cook today) is trapped in Shoreline, and our server is even more literally trapped with two jackknifed buses on his street on Capitol Hill. Replacements were understandably reticent. We are going to reassess at happy hour…since I imagine people might want some comfort food and wifi today? I know I do…slim pickins here at home

We’ll let you know as we hear more. Another photo from Christopher – “unofficial snow depth at The Junction, 5.5 inches at 10:45 am”:

Update on South Seattle Community College – closed. As our pal Justin at capitolhillseattle.com said to us via Twitter, “The news now is, what’s NOT closed (canceled).” True, but some people are diehards and won’t believe it till they hear it. We’re also checking again on the Cooper Elementary closure meeting for tonight, just to make sure that’s canceled too – stand by.

11:24 AM UPDATE: Allstar Fitness closed. Laura at 39th/Barton has seen two tow trucks hauling buses — a 54, and a 22. She adds, “Saw a woman trudging up the hill, she reports that her bus couldn’t make it up the hill, even with chains. Trucks and cars are making it up and down Barton OK but not much traffic. We have about 4 inches here.” And she says a UPS truck handled the hill just fine.

11:38 AM UPDATE: Our mail carrier just arrived, here in Upper Fauntleroy. Snow REALLY fast and furious. Carrier says plow has been handling Thistle east of here toward 35th etc. Adding some photos from our neighborhood in a moment, catching up with other pics everyone has sent. The snow is blowing sideways and big piles of snow are blowing off tree branches, so that’s extra dangerous if you’re even thinking of going out till it slows down. Here’s California looking north from Thistle:

Here’s Thistle looking east from California:

Plows have gone over both, incidentally. Here’s the top of the long, steep Thistle staircase down toward Lincoln Park:

Just got word from SDOT’s communications/Web folks that they’re going to give Twitter a try for the storm. You can find them at twitter.com/sdotsnow. Also just in, an update from Metro — “afternoon bus service will be limited,” core routes will be the focus – read more here. Also just got word of one more MAJOR CANCELLATION — the Cooper Elementary school-closure meeting scheduled for tonight IS CANCELED; rescheduling, TBD, will let you know. Also posting separately. Lowell hearing is postponed too (some West Seattle APP families would have been going to that).

11:55 AM UPDATE: First word in the comments, reposting here: Highline Public Schools, which has changed its status multiple times today, is now sending secondary students home early (elementaries were canceled before they started):

Updated 11:30 a.m. Due to worsening weather conditions, we will dismiss secondary students early today.

* 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.

Given that tomorrow was an early-dismissal day for most, last day before winter break, that would seem to make sense.

12:03 PM UPDATE: Changing to afternoon post shortly – will give notice here when that happens. But first – Puerto Vallarta in The Junction is open for lunch, we were just informed. Also open, coffee places including C and P Coffee (thanks to Mike for that word), Cafe Rozella in White Center (per proprietor Ricardo on White Center Now), and WSB inaugural sponsor Hotwire Coffee, where proprietor Lora Lewis took this pic:

Also got word from the Admiral District that Circa is open for lunch – not sure about dinner yet, depends on staff status.

12:17 PM UPDATE: We have now launched the afternoon post. Info, photos, etc., will all be there, and your “comments” — really, updates and reports — should move there too. THANKS AGAIN for collaborating on keeping West Seattle up to the minute. Here’s the new post.

293 Replies to "West Seattle snow: Thursday morning updates"

  • GenHillOne December 18, 2008 (5:27 am)

    KING reporting SPS closed.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (5:28 am)

    just showed up on school report. adding now.

  • Sue December 18, 2008 (5:30 am)

    The “snow” seems to be coming down in little icy pellets near me. Morons on Fauntleroy are still speeding along as if nothing’s happening, but I’ve been hearing tires spinning occasionally. As for schools, just heard on King5 that Seattle public schools are closed.

  • swimcat December 18, 2008 (5:31 am)

    My sister is on the 22 right now trying to get to Sodo and said the bus has been slipping and is struggling up the WS Bridge. Be careful driving out there.

  • cami December 18, 2008 (5:33 am)

    Was just small flurries at Alki and hour ago, now it’s full on snow and sticking to the road. Maybe the sled will get some use on Lander St. today!

  • GenHillOne December 18, 2008 (5:35 am)

    Wow, that was some thunder…

  • Fred Bentler December 18, 2008 (5:35 am)

    It’s snowing hard, thundering and lightning is flashing. Interesting morning.

  • Dustin December 18, 2008 (5:35 am)

    Major snow flurries in Shorewood. I just saw a big flash of lightning and two rolls of thunder too.

    Talk about some strange weather!

  • yo December 18, 2008 (5:36 am)

    I saw the lightning (BRIGHT) and heard the thunder!

  • HighlandParker December 18, 2008 (5:36 am)

    YES! What is up with thunder and lightening?! I have NEVER seen/heard that before! wow.

  • cami December 18, 2008 (5:36 am)

    Anyone else just have lightning??? Just had a flash and thunder at Alki. Weird!

  • cami December 18, 2008 (5:37 am)

    Another flash and a LOUD rumble!

  • littlebrowndog December 18, 2008 (5:37 am)

    Yep, thunder snow. And with just about 25 minutes of snow here at 49th and Dawson it is really sticking. Ooops, another lightening flash and thunder roll although it sounds further away now.

  • Dustin December 18, 2008 (5:38 am)

    Is this the weather gods trying to give us a show as an apology for totally shafting us yesterday?

  • Fred Bentler December 18, 2008 (5:38 am)

    First flash hit the Admiral water tower, I think. This next one hit a ways to the east.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (5:39 am)

    Snow, frozen pellets, thunder & lightning by Camp Long. Wow. 35th is solid white, there are a few cars and they have been taking it pretty easy. No sanders/plows as of yet.

  • d December 18, 2008 (5:39 am)

    WOW! This is a personal first – another flash and roll of thunder over in Highland Park. And, the snow too.

    Weird!

  • kevin December 18, 2008 (5:42 am)

    Wow, what a show! Thunder, lightning, and snow.

  • Scott C December 18, 2008 (5:45 am)

    Made it to Everett just fine this morning, getting home might be another issue!

  • Tracy D. December 18, 2008 (5:45 am)

    WOW! “Thunder Snow”(what they are calling it on the news) in the Morgan Junction.

  • Jen December 18, 2008 (5:48 am)

    A King 5 producer called into the on-air news to say she’d be late because there are two buses stuck on the West Seattle Bridge onramp at Delridge.

  • spsteacher December 18, 2008 (5:49 am)

    Wow, I have yet to see a car going EAST on the bridge and I’ve been watching a couple minutes.

    YAY for a snow day! I’m turning off my alarm clock and going back to bed.

  • SpeakLoud December 18, 2008 (5:49 am)

    What about road conditions? King sugggested you couldn’t get onto WS Bridge from Delridge-any comments?

  • Magpie December 18, 2008 (5:50 am)

    King 5 just said there were 3 buses stuck on the Delridge on ramp and that is completely blocked. I was up at 3:30 to let the cat out and it wasn’t even snowing. Now there is close to an inch and I am halfway between Admiral and the junction. I can usually see the bridge, but can’t see the house below me. The lightning was pretty awesome..thought at first there was an explosion.

  • Admiral Janeway December 18, 2008 (5:50 am)

    Seattle schools announced they are closed again.
    I remember the last time I saw lightning and heard thunder during a snow storm. It was on the East Coast during a blizzard. We got two feet of snow then.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (5:51 am)

    I have the “live” bridge cam, Delridge eastward, up at the top of this post, refresh for latest scene. Listening to radio and scanner too, will post updates in main text as we get them, and of course comments are VITAL too, thanks all! – TR

  • Celeste17 December 18, 2008 (5:53 am)

    Mom has a Dr’s appointment this morning at 10am at Swedish WS. I don’t think the Dr. will make it unless it clears fast.

  • Joleen December 18, 2008 (5:56 am)

    The Thunder Snow shook my house! :) This is great!

  • ArborHeightsMom December 18, 2008 (6:00 am)

    Definite white out conditions in Arbor Heights. It’s actually really pretty.

  • FabulousEm December 18, 2008 (6:04 am)

    King 5 just said “Stay Home!”. 90 and 520 look nightmarish on the news. Screw that, I’m going back to bed.

  • swimcat December 18, 2008 (6:08 am)

    I guess the 22 had to abandon at Delridge; my sister ended up on the 21 express and said the 21 had chains on and had no problems but that the driver seemed pretty skilled. She told me she wouldnt’ want to be driving today, and we both have a lot of experience driving in the snow in our Subarus. I’m still tempted to go to work but will likely work at home today. Be careful everyone!

  • GenHillOne December 18, 2008 (6:08 am)

    News is showing “graveyard” of cars on various freeways and I haven’t seen a plow yet. What DO those trucks do with themselves??

  • herongrrrl December 18, 2008 (6:13 am)

    Yay, thunder snow! I don’t remember that happening here since I don’t know when (seems to me when I was a kid it wasn’t that uncommon).

    I woke up at 4:30 and Beach Drive was bare and wet. Now we have more than an inch on the ground (and the street)!

  • sks December 18, 2008 (6:15 am)

    Anyone have reports of 35th from arbor heights to west seattle bridge? Thank you!

  • Celeste17 December 18, 2008 (6:15 am)

    I woke up at 4 am and all was clear. At about 5 am I heard and saw what I thought was hail and then it was snow. glad I am not working right now.

  • Rachel December 18, 2008 (6:18 am)

    I was on the abandoned 22. Had to get off at First and Seneca and walk to the courthouse. In heels. Still made it to work by 6, only a half hour later than usual.

  • Celeste17 December 18, 2008 (6:19 am)

    So glad all that ice melted yesterday so it can reform today. :)

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (6:20 am)

    SKS: I live on 35th by Camp Long, I’m amazed at how many cars are headed northbound. They seem to be doing ok. There are a few inches on snow on the road that seems to be packed down. Not many cars headed southbound so I assume they are getting over the bridge….

  • Chris M December 18, 2008 (6:22 am)

    The “Do Not Enter” sign went out @ the Delridge on-ramp just after I took the photo above. Be safe out there!

  • Kayleigh December 18, 2008 (6:23 am)

    Saw a bus struggling for traction headed up California between the junctions.

  • sks December 18, 2008 (6:25 am)

    Mel: thanks very much!

  • Tracy D. December 18, 2008 (6:25 am)

    Theron Zahn from KOMO 4 just called in from the WS Bridge saying that the on-ramp to NB I-5 is completely blocked. Multiple car collision. People are turning around and driving the wrong way off the on-ramp! UGH! Good luck folks. Sounds pretty gnarly!

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (6:27 am)

    DOT plow just went up 35th northbound. Doesn’t look like it made a difference.

  • cami December 18, 2008 (6:27 am)

    tracy, komo is reporting a multiple car accident on the northbound ramp of the ws freeway to i5. cars are at a standstill.

  • d December 18, 2008 (6:27 am)

    Here in Highland Park, the snow has slowed considerably.

  • BG December 18, 2008 (6:28 am)

    I don’t know first hand what Admiral hill looks like, but I hope for the sake of the people going fast down Admrial it’s better than the rest of the roads

  • Big Al (No, Not THAT One) December 18, 2008 (6:30 am)

    At 35th near Barton, cars are flying! Yikes!

  • Gina December 18, 2008 (6:33 am)

    Last thunder and lightening snow I remember was in 1990. At least there isn’t a strong wind blowing.

    It is my day off! Yay! Last night at work I kept looking out the window, dreading waiting for the bus downtown at night in the snow that was to come. I’ll be home to shovel my walk!

  • WSTEE December 18, 2008 (6:39 am)

    Admiral hill was scary-slow and easy wins the race. WS Bridge was not good. Viaduct was total nightmare. I just got here and I wish I had stayed home. BE SAFE AND SLOW.

  • Sue December 18, 2008 (6:42 am)

    I just called my firm’s snow emergency line and can’t believe they’re actually not closing today and expect me downtown. No matter – with all this going on, no way I’m leaving the house.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (6:43 am)

    Sue, that sounds like a wise move – the scanner is just (to use WSTEE’s phrase) total nightmare everywhere – even though the snow MAY end by late morning or so, it’s subfreezing out there now so it’s going to be ugly for quite a while.

  • cruiser December 18, 2008 (6:48 am)

    Anyone see my socks?

  • Gina December 18, 2008 (6:49 am)

    Just saw a snowplow go by on 45th, northbound to Admiral.

  • d December 18, 2008 (6:51 am)

    SDOT Sanding truck spotted! SDOT Sand truck spotted! Barreling north on 9th Ave SW which turns into Highland Park Way.

  • Cait December 18, 2008 (6:52 am)

    OK so I’m at Delridge and Holden – it seems Delridge is an impasse and the hills are treacherous! I already called in but, having never done it before and doing it twice this week, I need some reassurance I can’t get out.

    We’re sledding Kenyon today. WOOO!! THUNDA!!

  • Bonnie December 18, 2008 (6:53 am)

    I find it funny that Highline SD is only 1 hr late. It’s still snowing here. Is it that much better just south of us?

  • PDieter December 18, 2008 (6:54 am)

    we can’t find your socks cause of the white out.

    Come on…a white out? You’re making Jim Foreman blush with that one!

  • BG December 18, 2008 (6:55 am)

    Cait, I know what you mean, yesterday was my day off and I called in Monday and today, I almost hope can get in tomorrow

  • P December 18, 2008 (6:55 am)

    its amazing how many businesses stay open and expect the staff in, and cause all of these dangerous conditions. Companies will not close because then they HAVE to pay you. They can make it an optional day, then you have to either go non pay or take a personal/vacation day. Think about a large business having to pay the entire staff for a day of no production. I learned that when I worked for a large corporation on the east side. HR told me that closing just was not an option. Dumb if you ask me.

  • Carole December 18, 2008 (6:58 am)

    As of 5:25 am, King County Superior Court was on a 2 hour delay (both downtown and RJC in Kent). If that later changes to full closure I’ll post again.

  • Bonnie December 18, 2008 (6:59 am)

    Personally, I’d rather take the day off and go without pay. It’s better than an accident and having to pay for your car to get fixed or worse, hurting yourself or someone else.

  • homesweethome December 18, 2008 (7:00 am)

    back east we called it liberal leave – if you can make it in fine, if not its a vacation day/personal day/sick day

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (7:04 am)

    Just saw SDOT plow headed south on 35th.

  • cathy December 18, 2008 (7:05 am)

    An inch and about 30 degrees in Alki. Snow is still falling. Almost no traffic to be seen on Admiral Way.
    I missed the Thunder. Darn!

  • Toddinwestwood December 18, 2008 (7:05 am)

    How is Olsen Place down the hill????? Roxbury sounds slick, some cars spinning coming up hill near 21 ave sw.

  • Darren December 18, 2008 (7:07 am)

    Does anyone have a report on 35th ? I live in Arbor Heights and want to know what the road is like.

  • P December 18, 2008 (7:08 am)

    homesweethome, i remember those days, coming from DC… i agree, take the day off! everyone should have a laptop and work remote, just think of how nice it would be.

  • Cait December 18, 2008 (7:09 am)

    Hey P – if a business closes they HAVE to pay you? I didn’t know that… can you confirm that for me?

  • lina December 18, 2008 (7:11 am)

    i have not heard a car go by in a while at 35th and roxbury… yay snow day! be safe everyone!

  • B December 18, 2008 (7:12 am)

    35th is REALLY slick when you are coming down the hill from Alaska. Don’t even try it right now.

  • P December 18, 2008 (7:12 am)

    not sure, i think it would be in your policy book. the large company i worked for on the east side had to, that’s why we never closed, except for the windstorm, they did close that first day because the buildings were damaged and they were forced to close. our policy was that we got paid if they closed.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (7:13 am)

    Darren: 35th has been plowed both ways but still has packed snow. There are quite a few cars that seem to be making their way ok. Both of my neighbors went to work this morning.

  • HighlandParker December 18, 2008 (7:14 am)

    Any word on Highland Park Ave?

  • OK December 18, 2008 (7:14 am)

    How is the West Seattle Bridge to 99? Any reports on how hard it is to get downtown?

    I see the two busses stuck on delridge, what about getting onto the Bridge from Avalon?

  • cathy December 18, 2008 (7:15 am)

    A solid 2 inches at Alki, not 1″. But it is much easier to walk outside now. The footing is better on the snow than the ice.

  • zerodacus December 18, 2008 (7:16 am)

    My wife just called in tears, she’s stuck eastbound on the spokane st viaduct, she says cars are spun out everywhere, and the SPD is routing traffic westbound in the eastbound lanes and routing them off on the 4th ave s exit. She can’t even make it to the I5 on ramp.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (7:20 am)

    Everyone please stay home this morning!

  • mpento December 18, 2008 (7:23 am)

    I tried getting out from Arbor heights at about 6.15am. Multiple cars and a delivery truck sliding on roxbury. It was about 50/50 for people who looked OK and others who were an accident waiting to happen. When I got to Olsen there were emergency lights down at myers way intersection and most cars were pulled in to the side on olsen (great targets). I just managed to turn around. I took a peek down delridge but figured it would be just more of the same. I got back home with some sliding at roxbury/35th. I’m driving a old subaru 2.5 rs with good tires. Be safe and good luck.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (7:25 am)

    Zerodacus, that would be the crash I have been posting about. Radio doesn’t say WHERE on the bridge but since the Spok St Viaduct is called the WS Bridge too, that explains why I don’t see it on the traffic cams that show the highrise.

  • Mo Zwerling December 18, 2008 (7:25 am)

    I work at Public Health at Jefferson & 5th and take the 37 in to work (live at 47th & Dawson). The Public Health emergency line says all sites and services open, but I am afraid to get downtown and then get stuck! Guess I’ll hang in here and wait for more news — when the courts delay or close, Public Health usually follows

  • Rhonda December 18, 2008 (7:26 am)

    King 5 says west seattle bridge is closed

  • Mollis December 18, 2008 (7:27 am)

    King 5 just announced the WS Bridge is closed!! Snow day!!!!

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (7:27 am)

    Eastbound is closed, we have reported that. No word of westbound yet.

  • WSTEE December 18, 2008 (7:29 am)

    So what are the best suggestions on getting back home if the bridge is closed? I am going to leave early to get back home to the kid on her second day of no school… Thanks for any helpful ideas. And yes, I know I am a fool for even leaving the house.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (7:30 am)

    However, vehicles are still visible on The Bridge (see camera atop this post) WEST of 99. It seems this crash is on the Spokane St. Viaduct section.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (7:34 am)

    WSTEE, where are you coming from? I have done that in years gone by – in TV, “staying home” was never an option. Always tried to stay closest to level, of course. To low bridge, for starters, if possible.

  • karen December 18, 2008 (7:37 am)

    Just heard there is a 30 car crash on Olson place in White Center.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (7:37 am)

    Sander truck just went north up 35th.

  • datamuse December 18, 2008 (7:38 am)

    Down to flurries in Highland Park but there’s definitely an inch or two of accumulation out there. Hubby just went in search of caffeine (neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night will keep him from his morning coffee–he’s an accomplished snow driver so I’m not worried) and I’m sure I’ll hear all about the road conditions when he gets back.

    I know my university is open today–finals week–but I don’t think I’ll be making it into work.

  • charlabob December 18, 2008 (7:38 am)

    The bob just got to Renton — his normal 20 minute commute took an hour. Stay home :-)

  • karen December 18, 2008 (7:38 am)

    WSTEE – an often overlooked option is to go through South Park to get to West Seattle. But you still have to get up the hill.

  • Pablo December 18, 2008 (7:39 am)

    I live on the 4700 block of Delridge and have been watching traffic crawl it’s way towards the bridges for the last 40 minutes. It’s still moving but not fast.

    Thankfully my work (over in Georgetown) is shutting down for the day but for all you that have to venture out, be safe.

  • Bogie December 18, 2008 (7:40 am)

    Any reports on how Delridge looks to the lower bridge?

  • Sue December 18, 2008 (7:41 am)

    Metro’s adverse weather page says of the 54 and 54X: “Due to adverse weather, this route is operating an unpublished reroute. Please call 206-553-3000 or visit the adverse weather page for additional information.” Next to the 54 route it has the notation “Fauntleroy Closed” (I assume they’re referring to the lower portion since I’m north on Fauntleroy and there’s traffic (and buses passing by … although with the bridge closed, god knows where they’re going).

  • Anna December 18, 2008 (7:42 am)

    What are the chances of getting to the airport for a noon flight? Is the best option the bus?

  • Johnston December 18, 2008 (7:44 am)

    Just heard reports of 20+ cars and buses piled up on Olson place. That’s my route to work…all I needed to hear! Snow day!

  • GenHillOne December 18, 2008 (7:45 am)

    For those tracking measurements…a solid 4″ here. If not driving, it’s pretty – and really good snowman stuff, kids will love it. I used to be at a “we don’t close for weather, but we really do want everyone to be safe” (read: guilt, guilt, guilt) company, so I get it. Here’s hoping most can stay off the roads today!

  • Rachel December 18, 2008 (7:45 am)

    Here is a link to SDOT “Streets most likely to be closed in Seattle”…
    http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/snowandiceclose.htm

  • Big Al (No, Not THAT One) December 18, 2008 (7:45 am)

    30 car crash on Olson in White Center? Is that true? Are we talking the bottom of where Roxbury/Myers Way/Olson leads to the highways? Am I the only one who thinks even thinking about that hill is a bad idea in a car? (Though the kid in me wishes I coud try it in a great sled with brakes!)

  • marj December 18, 2008 (7:45 am)

    does anyone have more info on the buses? I see on the metro page that the 54 is on an unpublished reroute because fauntleroy is closed.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (7:48 am)

    King 5 just reported that BOTH directions of the WS bridge are closed.

  • Cait December 18, 2008 (7:49 am)

    I heard that 30 car pile up confirmed.

  • red December 18, 2008 (7:50 am)

    No word on Highland Park Way SW yet? I imagine it’s pretty trecherous right now.

  • Pablo December 18, 2008 (7:50 am)

    Q13 is saying now that the bridge is closed.

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (7:51 am)

    where did you hear it confirmed, Cait? they’re not reporting on much of anything WS related aside from the bridge closure.

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (7:51 am)

    on King 5, I mean. Maybe I should check the other stations… :)

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (7:52 am)

    The bridge reports have seesawed. All I would say is, never mind if it’s closed, JUST DON’T GO. KIRO radio said in the same breath 20 seconds ago “police changed their mind” — who knows what’s right except, watch the cameras, which is what we’re doing. We’ll post if we see NO ONE on the bridge.

  • bucky December 18, 2008 (7:52 am)

    Anna – I saw the 560 go by on California as I waited for my bus.

  • Johnston December 18, 2008 (7:53 am)

    I heard it on KIRO about 15 mins ago…

  • d December 18, 2008 (7:53 am)

    If the WS bridge is closed down and Olson has a 15+ car incident (where can that be confirmed?), then Highland Parkway might be an option, but people – it is a loooooong hill and I do not know it’s status. I saw a sand truck earlier, but I have NO idea whether it cleared HParkway. I’m close, but I can’t see it.

    So where are the best, safest sledding spots?

  • Cait December 18, 2008 (7:53 am)

    My friend’s mom saw it apparently. I got the “don’t go anywhere” call.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (7:53 am)

    BTW both bridge cams are now posted in line with latest images in the post above – eastbound view at top of post, westbound view in the past 10 mins. And all available, with more cams, any time on Traffic page
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/?page_id=60

  • Gina December 18, 2008 (7:54 am)

    KONG just reported that both directions of WS Bridge are now closed, confirmed by DOT.

    Lower bridge must still be open, have not heard anything about it being closed.

  • Big Al (No, Not THAT One) December 18, 2008 (7:54 am)

    Is it just me, or does anyone else think of the Blues Brothers police car crash scene under the El when someone mentions this 30 car pileup in White Center?

  • Pablo December 18, 2008 (7:54 am)

    Q13 Traffic just reported that there are “reports” of a bus/semi collision on the bridge that has shut down traffic but they are waiting for visual confirmation.

  • Mike December 18, 2008 (7:54 am)

    A Route 56 bus has been trying to get up Admiral way for the past 10 mins. He’s stuck just past 60th on Admiral.

  • BG December 18, 2008 (7:57 am)

    my very awesome boss called and said don’t even worry about trying to get in, stay home and play tomorrow by ear.

  • kirida December 18, 2008 (7:57 am)

    My friend took the 133 which normally goes down Roxbury/Olsen and she says it was re-routed through Delridge and it is completely backed up.

  • snowlion December 18, 2008 (7:58 am)

    Traffic on Fauntleroy seems a bit lighter than it was even an hour ago. I heard on NWCN that the WS bridge was closed. I had planned on going to Bellevue today for an appointment, but that’s not going to happen. I-90 and 520 are messes, 425 is even worse, and I just don’t have any interest in being out in it… all the traffic cameras on NWCN prominently feature disaster traffic – no thanks!

  • Darren December 18, 2008 (7:59 am)

    Well, if the WS Bridge is closed….I’m staying home. I just called my work and they said that there was a semi truck jacknifed by the building I work at on 5th and Madison.

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (8:00 am)

    LOL – Q13’s favorite new word is “THUNDERSNOW”

  • Cendi December 18, 2008 (8:01 am)

    My husband drove me from Gatewood Hill to South Lake Union between 7:20 and 7:45. Our route was California Ave to Fauntleroy to the upper bridge, then the viaduct. Traffic was light, the bridge and viaduct had been sanded, and we had no trouble. We were in a 4-wheel-drive truck, but the variety of vehicles around us also did OK.

  • Manuel W. December 18, 2008 (8:04 am)

    Want to get to SODO this morning, with the upper bridge closed lower must be a nightmare… anyone know status of the 1st ave s bridge?

  • cruiser December 18, 2008 (8:04 am)

    Ahh but Cendi how ya gettin’ back girl??

  • Sue December 18, 2008 (8:04 am)

    I’m noticing much more traffic going southbound on Fauntleroy than I normally do – I have a feeling people are turning around and going home. A 54X came by a little while ago and people were walking away from it – not sure if they were the people waiting for it and giving up, or getting off the bus, but they started walking southbound on Fauntleroy. Must’ve been told the bridge was closed and gave up.

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (8:06 am)

    typical…Q13 just gave a traffic report and neglected to mention WS at all. It’s just as well we’re cut off… perfect time to secede!

  • FabulousEm December 18, 2008 (8:08 am)

    Snow is falling really fast and hard in Westwood. Big fat flakes! Perfect snowman snow!

  • dana. December 18, 2008 (8:09 am)

    i live at the corner of 35th and barton and haven’t seen a 21 or 54 come by in at least 45 minutes…….

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (8:11 am)

    1st Ave So bridge cam is a little overexposed at the moment but FWIW here’s the link
    http://www.seattle.gov/trafficcams/sr99_westmarginal.htm

  • Darren December 18, 2008 (8:13 am)

    Looks like a white out on the 1st ave so bridge.

  • Homer December 18, 2008 (8:13 am)

    I don’t get it, there are camera’s at the light on Admiral right at the famous overlook but we can’t view them on any webpage to see how the big Admiral hill looks. Why not?

  • MrJT December 18, 2008 (8:14 am)

    Just got back from dropping someone off downtown (I have the 4 x 4) Slow and steady, but easily doable. And just a RANT in the middle of this.. Why do some drivers think what the windshield wipers clear is good enought to drive?!?!? What jackknobs. Stay safe and warm folks…

  • Darren December 18, 2008 (8:14 am)

    Just starting snowing hard again in Arbor Heights. We have about 3″ of snow.

  • bill December 18, 2008 (8:16 am)

    one hour to get from fauntleroy/california to the UW via a van pool van. Slushy snow downtown, fluffy snow in the U-district. Buses that don’t pull in to the bus stop seem to fare better than those that do.

  • Larry December 18, 2008 (8:20 am)

    These are the conditions at 38th and Oregon.

    8:00am
    From 2008-12-14 snow pics

  • CM December 18, 2008 (8:20 am)

    Confirm the Olson Place-Myers Way mess.

    Just drove down it myself (chained up last night) and there are cars and busses every which way.

    Wondering which way I’ll be getting home tonight…

  • GenHillOne December 18, 2008 (8:22 am)

    Homer – maybe those are “red-light” cameras (for photo tickets) rather than traffic feeds? Wonder if they shut those off around town during this weather…seems like they would trip a LOT with folks navigating the intersection. Would be a bummer of a ticket.

  • Becky December 18, 2008 (8:23 am)

    Is the water taxi running??

  • Julie December 18, 2008 (8:24 am)

    My husband reports Myers way closed.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (8:27 am)

    Becky, sadly, the Water Taxi won’t be year-round till 2010. We could use it on a day like this, provided people could get to it via bus/foot.

  • dana. December 18, 2008 (8:37 am)

    35th and barton: the 21 just came by and it was packed. still no sign of the 54 though.

  • datamuse December 18, 2008 (8:38 am)

    Highland Park Way: I just came back from my run, my route goes past the top of Highland Park Way. Unsurprisingly, it’s closed and the 23 is on re-route (but I spotted one going in each direction, so the bus IS running).
    .
    Some folks were trying it anyway, at least going downhill, and I guess they were making it because I didn’t hear crunches, horns, screaming, etc. Didn’t see anyone come uphill.
    .
    If you’ve got 4WD and/or chains, and know what you’re doing, it’s doable, but I’d go REALLY slowly and be careful; the snow along 9th is packed down pretty good and it’s slippery.

  • Veronica December 18, 2008 (8:40 am)

    This is the best blog / website ever! This saved me so much today by keeping me up to date with traffic and closures, better than any other website out there! I love this blog and I love West Seattle!!

  • Pablo December 18, 2008 (8:43 am)

    I’ve been watching the street outside on the 4700 block of Delridge.

    Traffic is still slow but much lighter now. I’ve also been watching the busses for my gf who sadly has to travel downtown soon and it was quite odd seeing a 23 and a 22 roll through.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (8:48 am)

    I agree Veronica! It’s great to have this communication and information. WS rocks!

  • Tracy D. December 18, 2008 (8:49 am)

    Can I just say WSB (Tracy and crew) – you are doing a kick ass job at keeping us all informed this morning ( as usual ). And thanks to all the west siders commenting on whats going on in their neck of the woods!

  • holly December 18, 2008 (8:50 am)

    my husband got on the 54 at 7:00. he just made it.

  • WSC December 18, 2008 (8:50 am)

    Two coyotes (momma and pup judging by size?) just working up Admiral at the top of Lander. Nice site in the snow.

  • Bree December 18, 2008 (8:51 am)

    i took the 55 at 710 and got into work about 30 minutes ago. the bridge and 99 are pretty bad. i would stay home if i could.

  • Sue December 18, 2008 (8:51 am)

    I’m also grateful for all the info here from everyone – when I called in due to weather at 6:30 (an hour earlier than I normally leave for work), I was second-guessing myself (especially since we had an important deadline today). Reading all of this here makes me realize that I made the absolute right decision today to not venture downtown via bus.

  • EmiliaS. December 18, 2008 (8:53 am)

    WOW there is a lot of snow out there! It would be great if we didn’t have to GO anywhere…
    :(

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (8:53 am)

    A packed #21 is headed up 35th.

  • D December 18, 2008 (8:55 am)

    I don’t know where I would be without the WSB! Thank you for keeping us all so updated!

    Right now I’m going to leave the warmth of our house and go shovel the sidewalk. Good excercise plus safety for everyone out walking. It’s not like I’m getting any work done at home.

  • sam December 18, 2008 (8:55 am)

    someone abandoned their van at the intersection of Andover and 23rd SW

  • jgo December 18, 2008 (8:58 am)

    anyone been up/down Sylvan Way? Is it open?

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (9:01 am)

    SBUX drive thru at Fauntleroy/Avalon is open, just an FYI

  • Scott (no, the other Scott) December 18, 2008 (9:01 am)

    Scanner just reported they are finally, after three hours, dispatching someone to that pileup at Roxbury/Olson. Yikes.

  • Kayleigh December 18, 2008 (9:01 am)

    I can’t believe it’s still snowing. Glad I did not try to make it downtown. Thank you to WSB and my neighbors for awesome information!

  • Homer December 18, 2008 (9:05 am)

    Thanks GenHillOne, good thought but redlight cameras are big and bulky and need flashes and seeing as this light is red maybe twice a day, not too likely. They look just like the other DOT cameras all around the city and on the bridge but we can’t view them. Would have been handy today though. Thanks again GenHillOne, that was a good thought!

  • atemybuick December 18, 2008 (9:05 am)

    Just made it to Southcenter from Fauntleroy/California on a 128 bus. Saw several jackknifed buses including one on Sylvan Way near the new townhouses. We made it down and cars were getting up.

  • J.See December 18, 2008 (9:06 am)

    It seems like about 4 inches on the ground by Admiral Safeway (just went out) and still more coming. It keeps getting lighter and tapering off, and then it starts back up again! I am NOT GOING ANYWHERE. There are people stuck in the Safeway parking lot trying to put on some chains. Luckily everyone at my work had the smarts to stay home today.

  • JH December 18, 2008 (9:07 am)

    Thanks Home! I work for the federal gov’t, and a message said “or a liberal leave day…” and I was thinking, what the )*()(* does that mean?

  • mike December 18, 2008 (9:08 am)

    The Boeing operations hotline hasn’t been updated since yesterday however they say all facilities are open. :(

  • EK December 18, 2008 (9:12 am)

    JH-

    Liberal leave day means you do not need your supervisor’s permission to take leave. You can just take leave.

  • Rhonda December 18, 2008 (9:13 am)

    I work from home so no snow day for me. But I do need to fly out this afternoon. Don’t know if that will happen or not.

  • mayjune December 18, 2008 (9:13 am)

    Can anyone share what the bus commute was like from WS to downtown?

  • FabulousEm December 18, 2008 (9:14 am)

    King 5 says the exit to I-5 on the WS Bridge is closed. So the bridge is open west bound, you just have to exit before I-5. A lot of good that is. Heading down to Westwood for Coffee (on foot).

  • CMP December 18, 2008 (9:17 am)

    Traffic seems to be moving just fine along I-5 in SODO…faster than a non-snow day which is pretty sad! I can also see cars on the Spokane St viaduct moving both east and west so it must be open. Don’t leave West Seattle if you don’t have to b/c then you’ll be stuck with my problem…how to get home this evening. Not looking forward to it!

  • CB December 18, 2008 (9:17 am)

    Boeing Everett is full open, I’ll telecon’ing in to multiple meetings and sounds like at about 75 % of folks (mostly people who live north) made it in.

  • Mike December 18, 2008 (9:17 am)

    Heavy snow falling down at Alki. 2 to 3 inches so far and still snowing.

    Seems to be a pretty strong band on the radar.
    http://www.weather.com/weather/map/interactive/98116?from=36hr_topnav_undeclared

  • mike December 18, 2008 (9:18 am)

    Just measured the snow and looks like about 3.5 inches in Admiral district.

    Also, those with hummingbird feeders, please don’t forget to thaw them out when it’s this cold. That’s pretty much all they live off of right now.

  • d. December 18, 2008 (9:20 am)

    anyone know if the 54 is running (to downtown) from the Junction?

  • Ash December 18, 2008 (9:20 am)

    Has anyone driven down Admiral and across the lower bridge in the last 30 minutes or so? I’m looking to get to SODO that way if it’s feasible (I do not have chains or snow tires). Thanks for any information!

  • Ken December 18, 2008 (9:25 am)

    I have a solid 4 to 5 inches here at Highpoint with a 1/2 in base of sleet.

    Still snowing. I was going to say it was slowing but I just looked out the window…

    I have to sweep again. I got another inch on my path.

  • rykrite December 18, 2008 (9:26 am)

    We have at least 4 inches in our yard, here by the West Seattle Nursery (California and Brandon). My husband swept our walk at about 8am, and it doesn’t look like he did a thing now, as it’s still falling strongly.
    .
    I recommend C&P Coffee for those who are RASing in and telecommuting. Best coffee in West Seattle! Say hi my husband if you see him there. :-)
    .
    I’m grateful for so much today: a warm home, good snow clothes, a fridge/cupboards full of food, friends within walking distance….and the WSB.
    .
    Stay warm and safe, everyone!
    .
    PS Does anyone here need help? This is such a good community – if there is someone in need maybe we can fill that need. Is anyone in snow-trouble?

  • AD December 18, 2008 (9:27 am)

    Genesee Hill – Not plowed.
    Very few drivers out. GOOD!

  • Tami December 18, 2008 (9:31 am)

    Has anyone made it to the airport lately? What route did you take?

  • beachdrivegirl December 18, 2008 (9:31 am)

    I madeit into work today. Took Harbor Island to E. Marginal Way to get to downtown. Not to bad as long as you are going slow! Actually slicker in downtown due to compact wet snow than it was in West Seattle.

    BTW is it still snowing in WS???

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (9:32 am)

    Yes, still snowing in Upper Fauntleroy, moderately.

  • sammy December 18, 2008 (9:33 am)

    yes…still steadily coming down in Arbor Heights.

  • Westwood Resident December 18, 2008 (9:34 am)

    Work said not to come in if I didn’t have to…WOOHOO!!!

    Wife headed up to Arbor Heights to drop kids off at friends house for sleding via Barton and 35th. I’ll update as soon as she gets home.

    LOL..She’s had trouble getting out of driveway because of too much snow piled up in front of the wheels, but she is off now.

  • littlebrowndog December 18, 2008 (9:35 am)

    Rykrite, good point about seeing if anybody needs any help. I’m at 49th and Dawson, will probably walk up to the Junction when the snow stops. Anybody in between here and there need a home delivery from Safeway?

  • mike December 18, 2008 (9:38 am)

    Wow, right now there are 3 guys out on the bridge on Admiral (just east of Metropolitan Market) shoveling and salting the sidewalks.

    And yes, still snowing pretty hard here in Admiral, too.

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (9:39 am)

    if someone could stop and pick me up some natural grace and coordination, I would really appreciate it. Already took a header down the steps behind my place. OW. Be careful out there, walkers.

  • R26 December 18, 2008 (9:39 am)

    Husband made it into work today (WS to downtown on Viaduct) after waiting for the bus (on 35th). Turns out it is jackknifed over by Avalon (he said they are working on getting it out). Took our truck and made it no problem. Said it was the “fastest commute ever”. Snow is very dry and not slippery.

    Be safe!

  • P December 18, 2008 (9:40 am)

    big beautiful flakes at 109th and 28th ave sw right now.

  • d. December 18, 2008 (9:42 am)

    …snowing pretty steadily in the Junction…

  • lincolnparkwalker December 18, 2008 (9:44 am)

    i can’t believe highline school district maintained 1 hr late status. very unsafe. one school is missing half of its staff and with no subs.

  • Lisa December 18, 2008 (9:46 am)

    9:44 am – Just measured 3.5 inches of snow on our back deck in Belvidere. Snow continues to fall…. :)

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (9:48 am)

    Q13 just showed footage of a jackknifed Metro bus at 35th and WS bridge.

  • A December 18, 2008 (9:50 am)

    About 20 minutes ago a gentleman in a maroon van pulled up in front of our house to adjust the chains on his van. When he left I noticed his right front tire spinning. That’s bc his chain fell off in the street in front of our house. My husband grabbed it and we’re hoping we can find him somehow to return it. This was on 44th @ Juneau. He was heading north on 44th. We just moved into our house about 2 months ago so we don’t know many ppl on our street yet but I can assume he’s local. If you know him pls let us know! email: maya893@comcast.net

  • Dustin December 18, 2008 (9:51 am)

    I was about to say the same thing, P. SW 107th and 28th is gorgeous. Big fat flakes coming down.

    P – you haven’t seen what 106th st or 26th Ave looks like yet, have you?

  • TomD December 18, 2008 (9:54 am)

    West Seattle Cellars will be open today 11 am to 8 pm if you need any wine to get through the day. Our tasting tonight from 5:30 to 8:00 will happen as scheduled.

  • rykrite December 18, 2008 (9:55 am)

    LittleBrownDog’s offer got me thinking about how we can reach out…
    .
    I put up a post on the forums for neighbors to ask for and offer help. If we have elderly neighbors snowed in, or those who can’t get out and need necessities, let’s help them! Check out the post if you need help or can offer it.
    .
    I love our community. :-)
    Kristina

  • zero-to-life in West Seattle December 18, 2008 (9:56 am)

    I just got the following email from my Mom at work. She is NEVER LATE anywhere. She catches the 54X daily on Fauntleroy….

    I’m here , but it wasn’t easy!! I tried for the 6:25 again, at 6:30 I walked to Calif Ave and joined the group for the 54 local. So far so good… until we had to turn onto 35th going down. It was a bus graveyard going up 35th. We went ever so slowly down the hill and then going down Avalon he couldn’t stop for the people on all of Avalon. The bus just wouldn’t stop- sliding. After the hill he announced we would be taking the lowlevel bridge. Then we just crawled along. Merging, lights, no traction. SLOW
    After getting on the other side of the low level he announced he’d be taking us back to the Metro base because he broke a chain. From there we could take another bus. Eventually one came by that ran up 4th Ave. I hopped off by the library and walked the last 5 blocks. Clocked in at 8:30 (45 min late).

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (9:56 am)

    Lincpkwalker – As you probably know, they canceled elementary but said they had to go ahead with HS/MS because most were en route to school when they made a decision. They really should have just canceled early on – Seattle made the call around 5:20. But maybe it wasn’t snowing yet in Burien at that point?

  • Chris December 18, 2008 (10:00 am)

    I’m coming back to WS soon. Is the bridge open? If not – what is the estimated time to get it open? Thanks!

  • P December 18, 2008 (10:02 am)

    Dustin
    my partner just got to work, fauntleroy and raymond. he took 28th to roxbury and then headed up to 35th, down to alaska, over to fauntleroy and circled back. 35th is slushy and (idiots driving fast and tailgating) alaska is icy and fauntleroy is snowy.

  • Diane December 18, 2008 (10:02 am)

    I’m at 37th and Hinds, snowing very hard past 1/2 hr; now lighter

  • CB December 18, 2008 (10:03 am)

    Avoid the Morgan hill between California & 35th, in both directions. A 128 bus just about took out 3 poles in an uncontrolled slide down the first half, it’s currently (10:00 am) just sitting. Cars coming up are having to slide back down – total skating rink unless you have chains on.
    10:02 update, bus is continuing to slide down one more block and has come to rest diagonally in the Morgan/38th intersection, flashers on.

  • Diane December 18, 2008 (10:04 am)

    well that lasted about 1 minute; now coming down hard again

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (10:04 am)

    Chris – the bridge has been plowed. It’s open but not apparently at I-5 end. Vehicles are being seen on the rest of it. Check the cameras on our traffic page.
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/?page_id=60

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (10:06 am)

    Also, this clarification from SDOT (I am posting in main text above too):
    The West Seattle High Level Bridge and Spokane Street Viaduct remain open westbound, however, motorists must exit prior to I-5 as an accident on the Columbia Street on-ramp is blocking northbound I-5. The Alaskan Way Viaduct is bare and wet, a good alternate to NB I-5 at this time. SDOT crews are continuing to treat in-bound major arterials which are open; they are also maintaining streets surrounding hospitals. Many sloped streets and side streets are not passable and have been closed. As the day progresses, SDOT will switch its efforts to treating major arterials heading out of Seattle.

  • Amy December 18, 2008 (10:07 am)

    Still snowing here at Belevidere and Admiral. There is at least 4 inches piled up on our deck. Geez, it’s even snowing in Las Vegas.

  • Chris December 18, 2008 (10:07 am)

    Great – I’m getting on from 1st Ave on ramp.

  • Terry December 18, 2008 (10:08 am)

    I walked over to the Alki Urban market at around 9:00 am and it was closed. So we may have to do without snacks, beer and wine today, unless the guy who works there spent the night.

  • Tracy D. December 18, 2008 (10:09 am)

    I’m at 41st & Morgan…and by the looks of things – CB is right…don’t even bother with Morgan St. People are sliding backwards down the hill – then turning down my block to get to Fauntleroy.

  • Phil of North Admiral December 18, 2008 (10:10 am)

    What a fab site.

    Here in N. Admiral snow continues with an estimated 4 inches on the dog house roof. Receiving calls from many employees who are staying home/working from home today. A handful bussed in (to lower QA), no one from West Seattle though. I plan to use the day to catch up on CPE at home.

    Thanks for all your work on this site! It’s great.

  • Westwood Resident December 18, 2008 (10:14 am)

    Well wife just got back…
    South bound trip was Barton to 26th, to 106th, to 35th..return was 35th to Barton.

    Compact Snow and ice on the roads on Barton, 26th and 106th. 35th was Compact till the bottom of the hill heading north.

    Going to walk to Westwood to see how that place is doing and get sleds for the kids (they came here instead :-(…So much for my quiet day.

  • Kayleigh December 18, 2008 (10:17 am)

    They need to send those Highline teachers and students home! For heaven’s sake.

  • Deb December 18, 2008 (10:19 am)

    WSB you are the best! Such great coverage and links…saved me the commute and standing in the snow this AM…THANKS!

  • cjboffoli December 18, 2008 (10:20 am)

    I just watched a re-enactment of a 3 Stooges episode at the corner of 41st and Alaska, if the stooges were re-cast as three West Africans driving a Mercedes-Benz.
    .
    The heavy sedan had only one rear drive wheel. The driver was inside steering (on his cell phone, the whole time) while his two friends were outside pushing futilely. The car wasn’t going anywhere despite the fact that he had it floored. The spinning tires were kicking up a series of blinding smoke-screens across Alaska.
    .
    The finally got it to spin across Alaska pointing downhill and exited the way they came.
    .
    Take it from a New Englander: Spinning your tires at full speed will NOT get you unstuck. You’ll burn up your engine and you risk spinning your tires apart from the centrifugal force.
    .
    Uploading video of this amusement in a few minutes.

  • yumpears December 18, 2008 (10:22 am)

    Snowing pretty heavily now here on 47th between Alaska and Edmunds.

  • J.See December 18, 2008 (10:24 am)

    Yeah, the snow at 42nd & Admiral is suddenly really heavy again. Not only heavy, but large flakes. I’m kind of in awe.

  • thee December 18, 2008 (10:25 am)

    so, on to the important stuff: is EBB open? I’m hooking up the dogs to a flexible flyer and could make it to the junction at the crack of noon.

  • d. December 18, 2008 (10:25 am)

    …just saw a plow heading south down California near the Junction…

  • CB December 18, 2008 (10:25 am)

    Went to bed last night. Weatherman in the *SEVERE WEATHER CENTER* predicted a trace of snow for Seattle today. Woke up to 3″ on the ground. Congratulations Seattle media, you got it wrong yesterday and you got it wrong today. Time to cut back on the hairspray.

  • dm December 18, 2008 (10:26 am)

    Graham west of California, which was a slight problem this weekend, is fine as of now. At 9:30 people were still trying to go up and down Morgan east of California. Saw cars heading both directions that were sliding.

  • dana. December 18, 2008 (10:28 am)

    if you’re in the westwood area, the super deli and grocery is open and going strong! ….and they have plenty of mimosa makings :)

  • mar3c December 18, 2008 (10:30 am)

    heh. my neighborhood is on kiro 7. they’re staring at the bus that slid sideways trying to climb 35th at snoqualmie street.
    .
    it appears that we are getting more snow than any place else in the city right now.
    .
    latest depth from the greater fairmount metro area: 4.5 inches and coming down heavily.

  • km December 18, 2008 (10:32 am)

    Does anyone wknow hoe Roxbury looks? And how does 35th from Roxbury north look?

  • MrJT December 18, 2008 (10:33 am)

    cjb – hoping the video is only an enhancement to the picture that you painted with words..

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (10:34 am)

    There will be NO flaming or interpersonal criticism in this thread. Tighter rules than usual. This is for snow sightings. If anyone feels a comment is inappropriate, flag me by sending a note to
    editor@westseattleblog.com and I will review.
    More freeflowing discussion, to a degree, can be had in the forums
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/forum
    Thanks.

  • Brandon December 18, 2008 (10:36 am)

    Sure, let someone else mock the west africans, but punish the people calling them out. Right.

  • d December 18, 2008 (10:37 am)

    I just got back from Westwood (QFC and the Pet Store and Starbucks are up and running…probably others)

    I’m wondering why there are so many drivers of cars attempting these roads with no chains and no 4WD?

    Two of them spun and impeded me in about a six block span.

    Then, there are the drivers in heavy trucks or w/4WD, but who do not LEAVE ENOUGH STOPPING DISTANCE behind me at the lights and intersection approaches. INCREASE YOUR STOPPING DISTANCE PEOPLE by two or three times, ‘k? While REDUCING speed.

    Argh. Ok. I’ve vented. And, TR, sorry if I screamed at you on the phone about the articulated at 15th…..I could barely hear you.
    :]

  • SS December 18, 2008 (10:37 am)

    anyone know how many inches we’ve gotten so far?

  • JenV December 18, 2008 (10:40 am)

    SS, I think it totally varies by neighborhood. The BF is up at 35th/Barton and reports nearly 5″. I think, by looking out and guessing only, that I have between 3.5 and 4″ – at 36th/Dakota.

  • Brandon December 18, 2008 (10:40 am)

    You can always hitch a ride on the swow mobile that just passed on 37th. At about 4″ and gaining with big (snow) flakes.

  • LInda December 18, 2008 (10:42 am)

    I have a beautiful veiw 40th and Fauntleroy, from the curve just past California Ave. at Fauntleroy, can see the California & Morgan junction and Eastbound Fauntleroy to the next curve. Just saw a 54 turn left onto California. Fauntleroy is covered bu traffic is getting through, with most folks driving slowly and carefully. A sanding truck came through Westbound around 9 a.m., nothing Eastbound and nothing since.
    Have watched several close calls as pedestrians used unmarked crosswalks or jaywalked to get across Fauntleroy causing cars to stop. I wish the folks I saw out walking would have remembered that causing a car to stop in road conditions like this is not safe for anyone. Pedestrians may have the right of way but that doesn’t do you much good when the car can’t stop, or the car behind the one that stopped can’t stop. It was very scary to watch.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (10:44 am)

    Just got my mail in the 5000 block of 35th.

  • Mel December 18, 2008 (10:45 am)

    And saw a UPS truck about 30 minutes ago.

  • P December 18, 2008 (10:47 am)

    109th and 28th ave sw, 4.5inches or up to the knee of a cat that just walked past my office window which overlooks my garage roof. Cats like it on my roof….

  • Cami December 18, 2008 (10:47 am)

    It hasn’t stopped snowing at Alki since 4:30am. My husband is currently driving home from Everett. Says that getting on 5 for 526 was bad, from Northgate to the Ship Canal was 60mph, then things got bad again. I’ll have a WS bridge report soon!

  • mike December 18, 2008 (10:51 am)

    fyi the steep hill section of Olson (connects to roxbury) is closed.

  • Megen December 18, 2008 (10:53 am)

    Just had UPS to deliver a package in the 5200 block of 35th. :) He managed to make it up the hill!

  • hc December 18, 2008 (10:55 am)

    To whomever asked: yes, the mail carriers are out. I just talked to ours as I was shooting pictures out my window, and she was bundled up and walking slowly, but definitely out there doing her work. She also noted that she was surprised at how low the visibility is down here on Alki during this snow. Am grabbing my camera and going out for a walk in a few minutes.

  • JH December 18, 2008 (10:56 am)

    Hey EK, I don’t even have to take leave. It’s a free snow day (i.e. holiday)!

  • Caitlin December 18, 2008 (10:59 am)

    What was the number for the WSDOT? I want to call and ask when they are planning on plowing my street. They didn’t get around to it until yesterday afternoon, just when everything was melting and right in time for it to snow again!

  • fiz December 18, 2008 (11:00 am)

    Yes, Three, EBB is open with hot chocolate for the kiddies and beer for the biggies. Todd says walk on in.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (11:01 am)

    They won’t get to it today, I can assure you, BUT you might as well call. Here’s that post again about reporting nonarterials:
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/?p=12726

  • Brandon December 18, 2008 (11:01 am)

    “Pedestrians may have the right of way but that doesn’t do you much good when the car can’t stop, or the car behind the one that stopped can’t stop. It was very scary to watch.”

    Yep, those good old Seattle peds.

  • GenHillOne December 18, 2008 (11:01 am)

    KING still keeps reporting that the bridge (including @ highrise) is closed. I know they can see the same cameras we can – and there are cars. Are people ignoring the closure?

  • sam December 18, 2008 (11:06 am)

    I can’t believe SSCC is late open at 10 am.
    the oregon/ 21st/ Dawson hill is terrible at this point and the buses aren’t driving it.
    Some crazy guy attempted it this am- headed to Delridge (without snow tires or chains- smart) and got halfway before sliding down backwards. I made it but was on foot. the hill at Andover and Delridge is really bad, and the abandoned van has been towed.

  • cjboffoli December 18, 2008 (11:06 am)

    Here’s a direct link to the stuck car on Alaska video from a hour ago. I forwarded it along to Tracy but she’s so busy today I’m not sure she’ll have time/space to add it to the main page.

    http://www.vimeo.com/2566154

  • DB December 18, 2008 (11:08 am)

    Does anyone know if the businesses in the junction are open?

  • Diane December 18, 2008 (11:10 am)

    <>

    that’s so funny; never heard that one before

  • cjboffoli December 18, 2008 (11:11 am)

    DB: Any business in particular that you’re thinking about? The Junction is pretty quiet this morning. But Cupcake Royal is open. And their eggnog cupcakes and gingerbread cupcakes are in full-effect.

  • EK December 18, 2008 (11:12 am)

    I have a snowday as well JH…I always hate having to take leave on these days, but better safe then sorry.

  • Dustin December 18, 2008 (11:13 am)

    Shorewood Update:

    I measured 2 inches of snow off the roof of my car about 45 minutes ago, but it might be closer to 3 now since it’s still coming down steady (P, if you’ve got 4 inches+ then you must be stealing some of mine :). I was snapping pictures at the junction of SW 106th and 28th Ave SW and watched a plow/sanding truck come through headed west on 106th down the hill. Funny thing is it got to the bottom of the slope (Seola Beach Drive) and then did a U-turn and came back up the hill instead of sanding all the way up to 35th Ave. Only thing I could think of was that since it was a King County vehicle, that they were stopping at the city limits which I think is 30th Ave ( or Seola Beach Drive here in Shorewood).

    What traffic I did see was taking it pretty slow. Snow is still pretty fluffy so walking isn’t bad, but if this stuff freezes over…yikes!

  • Diane December 18, 2008 (11:13 am)

    ok, where is that edit button?
    ~
    I posted in reference to:
    “up to the knee of a cat”
    ~
    that’s so funny; never heard that one before

  • Elikapeka December 18, 2008 (11:15 am)

    A big thank you to all the contributors to this thread…..I was going to make an attempt to go to Tacoma this morning, but after reading about the road conditions, I didn’t bother. I grew up in Colorado and know how to drive in snow, but the hills and ice make it dicey even if you have the right vehicle and tires and know what you’re doing – and you never know what the other motorists around you are going to do! So thanks to all of you, we’re warm and cozy and enjoying some good coffee instead of sitting in traffic somewhere.

  • Brandon December 18, 2008 (11:21 am)

    This says it all:

    Seattle paralyzed by chance of snow.

    http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008531903_websnowfears17m.html

  • JH December 18, 2008 (11:21 am)

    Can I venture out and even drive to Metro Market? It can’t be that bad right??? I do have four-wheel drive…

  • Caitlin December 18, 2008 (11:24 am)

    Thanks!

  • P December 18, 2008 (11:27 am)

    I was serious on the cat knee, its my neighbors cat and she always looks in my office window, and the snow was up to her knee this morning. Its her morning thing, I give her a treat and she goes to the next house for her next snack. Heading out from 109th and 28th ave sw to fix a problem at my shop, will report back on roads.

  • Andrea December 18, 2008 (11:27 am)

    anyone gone up highland park hill recently?

  • P December 18, 2008 (11:28 am)

    If you need to know, Pizza Time on 35th Ave SW is open, not sure about delivery, but they are open.

  • Jacob December 18, 2008 (11:28 am)

    Snowplow headed north on California just crossed Fauntleroy. Lots of drivers sliding around at the morgan junction; stay in if you can!

  • PP December 18, 2008 (11:29 am)

    Snow mobile just spotted going up and down 26th in front of Village Green Nursery!

  • Larry December 18, 2008 (11:30 am)

    Oregon St SW is pretty much a no go without chains or 4WD here is a stuck car by the West Seattle Bowl.
    http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/SbfAbTJbIV3D70KF_M3FDw?authkey=Y87JOIN50JI

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (11:30 am)

    GHO, the bridge is NOT closed. Just that one end, at last report. I would wager they are working off very old info. That’s the danger of having to cover an entire region, vs. having people keeping you up to date on what’s happening in a very local area. I’m sure I was to blame for many such mistakes in my tv days too … it’s really tough to juggle so much, and they don’t have THAT many people (lots more cutbacks lately, too).

  • The Velvet Bulldog December 18, 2008 (11:34 am)

    This is all my fault. I talked to my friend in Calgary who told me they have three feet of snow. I laughed and said something about it being better to live here ‘cuz there’s just not that kind of snow. Damn – NEVER mock a Canadian in Winter.

  • Aim December 18, 2008 (11:35 am)

    Close to 5″ in South Delridge/Highland Park. Still snowing HARD. My cats are fascinated. The neighborhood is eerily silent — no Delridge traffic noise at all. Mailman just came by; much as I b*tch and moan about the mail delivery when there’s a substitute, our regular guy is pretty awesome. I can’t imagine his job is very fun today.

  • Pablo December 18, 2008 (11:36 am)

    JH- All depends on what roads you have to take and your driving skill. Heck, I’ve got a little Geo Metro that I could drive down Delridge to a store if I really felt like it but I think I’m going to stay inside.

  • KSJ December 18, 2008 (11:37 am)

    Our mailman just came, right on time in the Admiral District. Thanks Ron! It’s dumping here again. Measured on the porch 30 mins ago and we already had 5″.

  • A December 18, 2008 (11:39 am)

    We measured 5 inches in our front and backyard – 44th & Juneau! It’s beautiful! Our 2yo loves it!! We almost died when we saw a snowmobile driving on Juneau up to California. Have fun everyone – stay safe! :)

  • cjboffoli December 18, 2008 (11:42 am)

    Not only did our mail carrier just arrive with the mail, but he was wearing shorts.

  • Amy December 18, 2008 (11:42 am)

    Wow, 266 posts. Tracy is that a record?

  • Kayleigh December 18, 2008 (11:43 am)

    Major props to the Metro drivers, mail carriers, and anybody else who’s working their tails off in the snow today!

  • lincolnparkwalker December 18, 2008 (11:43 am)

    5.5 inches at the top of genessee hill. i also just got word that highline school district is now closing early and sending students home at noon. what a mess for those folks.

  • GenHillOne December 18, 2008 (11:43 am)

    LOL, KING just updated bridge info…maybe reading WSB? I’ve been watching their coverage of the yahoos in Redmond blowing past road blocks this morning, so just happy it’s not happening on the bridge. And no, the yahoos aren’t making it…

  • Wil December 18, 2008 (11:44 am)

    UPS is definitely delivering. Just got my Christmas packages delivered right on schedule!

  • Deb December 18, 2008 (11:45 am)

    mail just delivered to 45th and Wildwood…guess USPS believes their motto ;o)

  • Bogie December 18, 2008 (11:51 am)

    5.5 inches by SSCC and still coming down steadily. So are snowmobiles legal with this much snow? Have one in the garage that would love to come out and play :)

  • dv December 18, 2008 (11:52 am)

    Has anyone come back from the airport today? My hubby is scheduled to land in a few hours and I’m not sure the best way for him to get home. He has his car at the airport. He’s thinking maybe 509 to W. Marginal and then up towards Avalon to get towards the Morgan junction.

  • Holly December 18, 2008 (11:53 am)

    I phones the post office and theysaid everyone should next getting their mail. CPU mail is open today too. When I was at the junction, I noticed some stores closed, but the good news is that the bars were open!

  • Darren December 18, 2008 (11:58 am)

    Got our mail on time this morning in Arbor Heights. 35th and SW 105th.

  • Kathleen December 18, 2008 (12:03 pm)

    I got my handy dandy tape measure and have officially 5 inches of snow at our house on Beach Drive

  • kathy December 18, 2008 (12:04 pm)

    Heard from a friend that 405 is closed from Renton through Belleview. This area is not equipped to keep us moving at all in this kind of weather!

  • Tracy D. December 18, 2008 (12:10 pm)

    WEST 5 is open in the Alaska Junction for whoever was asking about what was open. My friend Quinn is bartending. I’m thinking an Irish Coffee and a Mac and Cheese might hit the spot!!!!

  • Danielle December 18, 2008 (12:13 pm)

    Does anyone have a picture of the snow on the beach at Alki?

  • Mike Dady December 18, 2008 (12:16 pm)

    Just finished a nice long Cross Country ski around the West Seattle Golf Course. Highly recommend it for anyone itching to get out and enjoy a very peaceful setting. Feels like New England out there!

  • Mary December 18, 2008 (12:20 pm)

    There’s sledding on Alki. Kid you not!

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (12:21 pm)

    Just launched afternoon coverage –
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/?p=12797
    Please post further comments/reports/questions there, and we can’t say it enough:

    THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HELP KEEPING WEST SEATTLE UP TO THE MINUTE!!!!!!! – TR & Patrick

  • datamuse December 18, 2008 (12:21 pm)

    It really does, Mike! I went for a run this morning and it reminded me of the years I spent in Massachusetts. Quite lovely.

    We’ve got 5-6 inches in Highland Park, and it’s still coming down (and blowing around a bit too).

  • Pablo December 18, 2008 (12:22 pm)

    KOMO 4 just reassured all their viewers angry about their soaps being preempted by the extended news coverage that they’ll be running “All My Children” at one in the morning so they can record it.

    hehe

  • Rachel December 18, 2008 (12:24 pm)

    Does anyone know if the 55 is running?

  • JH December 18, 2008 (12:24 pm)

    7 inches of snow at 51st/Hanford! I measured about five times in different spots because I couldn’t believe it (thinking the trees had dumped snow).

    So do I snowshoe or cross country ski after lunch???

  • T December 18, 2008 (12:55 pm)

    Any downhill ski reports? From past experience, golf course, the park at the N end of California that drops down towards Alki are good spots.

  • JH December 18, 2008 (1:30 pm)

    I ventured out to Metro Market against everyone’s suggestions, and the roads were okay! Of course, the Holy Rosary Xmas tree lot was closed. I need a tree! :-(

  • Mary December 18, 2008 (2:07 pm)

    South Seattle Community College is indeed closed. It was posted closed on http://www.schoolreport.org at 8am when I checked. I understand that the phone line wasn’t updated until around 7:15am but that info came from someone else. When I checked the website at http://www.southseattle.edu at 11am it showed the college closed.

  • WSB December 18, 2008 (2:19 pm)

    Please come to the afternoon report to ask questions and share information -we moved on to that one just after noon.
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/?p=12797

    Thanks!

  • stephanie January 2, 2009 (7:05 am)

    To all those whiners in seattle about how bad it was and being snow bound(stuck in their homes.) suck it up! I live in kitsap co and I still have 6 to 8 inches of snow on my property and it snowed last night 1/2/09 and has been snowing almost ever freeking day since the first storm started! so suck it up! and get on with your life and quit whinning! oh and I had to plow my own drive way and street several times! I also have to go out everyday and break ice for my horses and donkey twice a day and push threw the snow with a wheel barrow full of feed and fix fence and any thing else that goes wrong. I have also had to carry buckets of water from my kitchen to these animals daily because of ice and snow! oh and you only had maybe 8 inches of snow I had 16 to 18 inches at it’s peak try getting around in that! If I can do it with out complaining so can you!

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