West Seattle snow and ice: Wednesday 12/24 updates

(scroll/refresh for latest WSB updates and WSB’er comments – WSB Traffic cams page HERE – links/open-closed list HERE)

We got that photo on Monday, set it aside, and can’t find who to credit. Regardless of how you feel about the snow, it just says “Christmas Eve” to us. So – good morning! If you have early info to share or questions to ask, this is the place. Live updates from the multiple sources we monitor will resume around 5:30. Till then, here’s our list of links/open/closed (and remember, Metro’s put out a service advisory for not just today, but the holiday schedule that follows).

6:29 AM UPDATE: As Sage K was first to note in comments, it’s been snowing about two hours. So if we’re supposed to get up to four inches out of this, that means it’ll be doing so for some hours to come. The early-morning forecast has the “winter weather advisory” in effect till 4 pm. How much snow? Via Facebook, Talani at Stor-More Self Storage (WSB sponsor) says 2″. On TV, someone just said WSDOT has picked up half a ton of broken (or otherwise lost) chains from local freeways. Scott K sent proof of snow-clearing on California SW (past the long-closed Chuck and Sally’s) around 1 am:

7:05 AM UPDATE: Reminder that bridge cams and other West Seattle-relevant road cams are on the WSB Traffic page.

Snow report from co-publisher Patrick‘s first shoveling of the WSB HQ walkway (and we’re 300-plus feet elevation if you’re keeping track): “Wet, pliable, mushy, there’s some holes in the snow, which means there’s some rain mixed in out there.” Not the same as the dry stuff we had during those VERY cold days. Meanwhile, here’s a heartwarming (and bonechilling) story of what happened while you slept: Kevin writes in the WSB Forums about neighbors digging out a stuck bus south of Morgan Junction overnight.

7:41 AM UPDATE: Reports in the comments and via Facebook suggest bus-catching is working relatively well this morning. Thanks to everyone who continues to share stories so your West Seattle neighbors will get first alert when it’s not. Quick update just in from SDOT via Twitter: “SDOT plowing inbound commute roads in Seattle. Arterials are plowed with passable road conditions. Motorists should go slow.” (Twitter is limited to 140 characters per message, if you didn’t already know that.) Weather update – Some commenters report it’s raining. You can hear that toward the start and end of this clip from California/Thistle within the past half-hour:

When it’s light – if you’re home – please remember to check your downspouts and storm drains, to avoid a whole new round of trouble (flooding, puddling, worse) once The Big Melt is in full swing.

7:59 AM UPDATE: “Wintry mix” is our description for what’s happening out there. On the forecast beat, Cliff Mass says this morning that it still appears more rain is in store as a “stronger system” moves in this afternoon. Airport update from TV – “No weather related problems” but parking is tough to come by. Meantime, if temperatures drop again tonight, the issue will be the same as last night – you can get there in the morning but can you get home in the evening? This e-mail just in from Tamsen (e-mail us any time at editor@westseattleblog.com):

I just checked your site and don’t see many reports about the commute this am. But, I am going to wait awhile before trying to go into work because last night I couldn’t get out of downtown Seattle. Three 21 buses passed us up at Seneca and 1st ave from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. Two cabs said they wouldn’t go to WS and then finally one cab driver said he’d take us. Four of us piled into the cab and he took us as far as 35th and Morgon. So, if I go in to work it will depend on if this changes to rain so I can hope to get back home.

8:16 AM UPDATE: The Velvet Bulldog sends a photo of Caffe Ladro barista Leslie making snowmen because customers were few and far between this morning:

8:30 AM UPDATE: As already discussed in comments, there’s a new problem at Sea-Tac – de-icer got into a ventilation system. It’s happening on board a plane at gate N-17, per KIRO. KING says eye irritation is the major problem.

8:35 AM UPDATE: A report from the airport – NOT regarding that problem, but in case you’re wondering what it’s like at the airport in general (NOTE THE PARKING RESERVATION PROBLEM), Brian just sent this:

On plane now, waiting an hour for deicer truck. I’m sure other flights are delayed too. All parking is gone at airport, MasterPark and Thrifty. We had a reservation at Thrifty and they denied it. We literally got one of the last 5 spaces at the airport.

On the bright side, security was fast and friendly.

Bus update from orcmid on Twitter: “08:00 MT #55 and #54 depart Alaska Junction for downtown, seem on schedule.” On TV, Bellevue has switched from rain back to big fluffy snowflakes, in case you have to head that way. But driving is VERY slick – co-publisher P just reported somebody going sideways downhill on Thistle.

8:42 AM UPDATE: The official word from the city on residential trash pickup. None, AGAIN, today:

Residential garbage, recycling, food and yard waste
collection has been delayed in Seattle today, Wednesday, Dec. 24, due to
dangerous road conditions. Wednesday residential customers will be
collected next Wednesday Dec. 31.

The city*s collections contractors have been running limited commercial
routes around the clock this week, providing service urgent commercial
accounts where containers are accessible. Service priorities include
hospitals, health facilities, grocers and other accounts with severe
capacity constraints.

*The collections crews are working around the clock to reach priority hospitals, health facilities, grocers and other urgent accounts with limited capacity,* according to Hans Van Dusen, solid waste contracts manager for Seattle Public Utilities.

*They have about 35 trucks out today in Seattle with full chains and double crews to reach the vital accounts. However, snow accumulation is still hampering access to streets, alleys and many commercial containers.*

Residential collections were suspended Thursday Dec. 18, through today, Wednesday Dec. 24, due to snow fall and road conditions. Limited commercial routes have been run Monday through Wednesday this week reaching approximately 30 percent of the businesses accounts in the city. Contractors are continually inspecting all neighborhoods throughout the day for service opportunities.

Due to the Christmas holiday on Dec. 25, Thursday and Friday customers will be delayed one day. Thursday customers will be collected Friday, Dec. 26, and Friday customers will be collected Saturday, Dec. 27.

Customers whose collections have been delayed by a week can set out double their normal amount of garbage at no additional charge. When setting out extra waste, customers are encouraged to place perishable food items in their collection containers and set bagged non-perishable items next to the containers. Customers who have had their collections missed two weeks in a row can also take their waste to Seattle*s Recycling and Disposal Stations, where it will be accepted at no charge.

Seattle’s recycling and disposal stations, at South Park and Wallingford, are open today, but will be closed on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, and New Year*s Day, January 1.

And remember that if you are among those of us who have been missed for TWO weeks, the city says that’s TRIPLE pickup next week. Here’s hoping this is all gone by then.

8:45 AM UPDATE: Alaska Flight 528 from Sea-Tac to Burbank was the flight involved in the deicer mishap, says Alaska spokesperson on Channel 5. Plane’s been “evacuated.”

8:52 AM UPDATE: If you’re Ballard-bound, beware of a big bus mishap causing traffic trouble there, per our pals at MyBallard.com.

9:13 AM UPDATE: Signs of life in The Junction — Lora at Hotwire Coffee (WSB sponsor, and planning to be open Christmas morning at 8 am) says it’s raining and people are “starting to walk around” – she sends pix, starting with this look south on California SW from outside her coffeehouse:

And looking north (that’s the California/Genesee stoplight in the background):

And a road update from Talani at Stor-More (via Facebook, where you can “friend” us at WS Blog): “”Update on Avalon…cars seem to be traveling without too many problems in a lot of slush, as we have mixed rain at this hour…snow is still piled up in the center lane on Avalon…”

9:27 AM UPDATE: A side conversation on Twitter re: clearing your storm drain led to a reminder from Hopey about a link that might help if you’re looking for yours – we reported it here on WSB almost two years ago as a “cool tool” for researching your home’s history – look up your Side Sewer Card here (the “back” has a list of some of the neighborhood names back in the day).

9:55 AM UPDATE: Words of wisdom from whomever’s sending out the WSDOT Twitter updates: “Be prepared for winter driving conditions, slush is only fun in Slurpees.” Another weather note: It’s getting a bit breezy out there. And yes, it’s yucky everywhere – via Twitter tip, here’s a YouTube link to video of stuck and abandoned cars at 24th/Aloha on Capitol Hill.

If you need to get to a city Neighborhood Services Center to pay a bill or handle something else today, Delridge NSC coordinator Ron Angeles has sent an update on planned hours today – his is open till 6 pm (except for lunch break 1-2 pm), the one in The Junction is closed.

10:40 AM UPDATE: Just got some bus updates and advice from West Seattleite “orcmid” via Twitter: “The 08:09 MT #54 to downtown from Alaska Junction took viaduct and Seneca to 3rd avenue (but not s topping at Seneca) … MT #14 toward Summit from 4th & PIke could not get up to Broadway around 9:20, passengers had to walk … With Metro buses on reroutes and variations of snow routes, always ask drivers about your destination. … At a rerouted destination, ask driver where to find return bus and what markings might be. May not match nos. at stop.” In the “more practical advice” department, the city of Burien has just sent a news release about roofs and the load caused by water-laden snow – it’s not really city-specific so you might want to read it.

10:51 AM FREE CHRISTMAS TREE BULLETIN — Just got a phone call (206-293-6302, call us 24-7) that Holy Rosary Tree Lot behind Admiral Safeway is GIVING AWAY THE REST OF ITS TREES starting at noon.

11:24 AM UPDATE: Co-publisher Patrick went out on a road-scouting mission and reports that in general, California SW is “bare and wet” – it’s the side roads that are still trouble, with big piles o’snow. Photos should be back shortly. CANCELLATION UPDATE – Just got word that Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation has canceled tonight’s service. We have a running list of previously scheduled Christmas Eve services on the Holidays page; we’ll be checking to see if anybody else has changes/cancellations.

11:51 AM UPDATE: From scootinoldskool via Twitter: “California Ave STILL has a Jersey barrier made of snow… except where there’s a traffic island made of snow.” Meantime, we’re uploading our pix now. Main roads passable but LOTS of people out there. … And in fact, our photos show that “Jersey barrier” – from The Junction, first:

North from The Junction (that’s JF Henry on the left):

SDOT communications director Rick Sheridan is doing a phone interview on TV right now and said they’re aggressively working on secondary roads. Meantime, one more photo from the recent WSB scouting trip – Morgan Junction:

12:36 PM UPDATE: Lari sent this photo of the traffic backup in the Admiral Junction area (eastbound on Admiral, she said it was backed up to at least 49th SW):

12:47 PM UPDATE: Karen sends this photo of a Seattle Public Utilities crew doing some work at Delridge/Myrtle:

We’ve said it before but gotta say it again – GO MAKE SURE YOUR DOWNSPOUTS AND STORM DRAINS ARE CLEAR now that the melt is on – we don’t want to have to be doing flood-crisis coverage next! Also, take care of your neighborhood birds – we just cleared our bird bath – they’re thirsty! Check out this great shot Darren sent from Arbor Heights:

One more note – we’ve checked with West Seattle grocery stores regarding what time they close tonight, since it’s Christmas Eve after all – Metropolitan Market, QFC, Thriftway all say 6 pm — all West Seattle Safeways are closing at 7 pm.

2:31 PM UPDATE: As discussed in comments, the mayor had a media availability within the past half-hour. We didn’t get notice in time to change direction and get over to 7th/Dearborn from White Center (Pho 54, open till 6) in time. Here’s hoping a tv station turns around the “raw” (unedited) video before long. We’ll link any other accounts we find of it, too. HA.org calls the salt/no-salt controversy “Frozenwatergate” and a commenter mentions a new (albeit misspelled) Facebook group.

Weather note: Rhonda Porter (WSB sponsor) just tweeted that Alki just had a 44 mph wind gust – it’s raining fairly steadily out there too – other parts of the city reported flickers early today so be forewarned.

2:50 PM UPDATE: KING account of mayor’s news conference – he gave the response a “B.” 684-3000 is now a city hotline for problems relating to city services — 684-3000, for frozen pipes, flooding, power outages, etc., and it will be answered tomorrow too, 9 am-5 pm, 24/7 otherwise.

3:15 PM UPDATE: On our way back from White Center, brought back a photo of 35th, looking north after turning from Roxbury:

Here’s the link to raw video of the mayor’s news conference. Looks like the Q and A is a separate link (we’re still watching the first one). (Watching it: Hizzoner said he too was “frustrated” but also said that once in a while “Mother Nature will challenge us.” He promised a review, “did you have the tools you needed to do the best possible job? what if we were to get hit by this or something similar in the future? … We’re not Buffalo or Cleveland where we have hundreds of pieces of equipment to deal with this … Those Midwest cities are flat and that means additional flexibility. … (Today) we’ve brought on a private contractor with a road grader and additional pieces of equipment.”)

Several power outages are reported in other parts of the city; here’s the latest list.

3:37 PM UPDATE: The Holy Rosary “Christmas tree giveaway” (mentioned earlier) is over – they’ve closed the lot.

3:55 PM UPDATE: More pix just in – Robert sent this from The Junction’s latest traffic jam:

And Alki slush from Orin O’Neill:

Got a little shopping yet to do? Just got this from WSB sponsor Click! Design That Fits, via Twitter: “Customers still coming in, so we’re still open, past closing time of 3pm. But call before heading down to make sure we’re still here-328-9252”

4:10 PM UPDATE: Another Alki Ave angle from Orin, looking west this time, past the bathhouse:

Here’s the newest forecast — still possibly some snow showers ahead. But in general, it’s still mostly melty out there, as evidenced by the “listing snowman” photographed in Gatewood by Jill Schmieder from Altena Photography:

245 Replies to "West Seattle snow and ice: Wednesday 12/24 updates"

  • Sage K December 24, 2008 (4:20 am)

    Yuck1 It’s snowing again.

  • wsguy December 24, 2008 (4:32 am)

    49th & Brandon – No snow here so far…

  • dana. December 24, 2008 (4:47 am)

    coming down good in westwood.

  • Magpie December 24, 2008 (5:31 am)

    I was up at 2:30, nothing, but did take a look at the doppler…was on it’s way. Now, it’s really coming down. May be no Christmas eve with relatives at my house tonight. This is nuts!

  • wsguy December 24, 2008 (5:50 am)

    Snowing here now – aaarrrrgggghhhh

  • RobertSeattle December 24, 2008 (6:06 am)

    I’m starting to miss the lousy snow storms that melted by noon….

  • JH December 24, 2008 (6:09 am)

    Woke up, looked out the window, started laughing (either that or I cry!), now I’m going back to bed. Is this some kind of bad joke???

  • Babs December 24, 2008 (6:17 am)

    Dialog from a job interview for Seattle snow plowing street architect/planner. Interviewer: “So where did you grow up?, Interviewee: Los Angeles.”
    YOUR HIRED.”
    OK, I’m going so crazy from being under snow arrest in my apartment that I want to run out into the street screaming but alas I would slip and fall… I did get to the store yesterday and the mailman did make it here with Netflix movies. Santa I want a 70 degree sunny day for Christmas!

  • Magpie December 24, 2008 (6:27 am)

    I think they should ban all snow songs from the radio today, no white Christmas, no let it snow, no Snow from white Christmas..I think if I hear a snow song, I might scream!
    Time to get dressed and attempt to go to work. Hopefully, the liquor store will be open when and if I get back to west Seattle.

  • yo December 24, 2008 (6:27 am)

    I wonder how I-5, 509, and 518 are doing?

  • MichelleD December 24, 2008 (6:27 am)

    Coming down here in Highland Park, but my partner just checked the Metro advisory and it looks like the 120 is running so she’s off to work. Just checked relatives flights coming in this morning and they’re still scheduled. Let’s hope the snow is brief and doesn’t mess any worse with everyone’s holiday plans than it already has thus far.

  • JayDee December 24, 2008 (6:34 am)

    I decided not to be a contestant in today’s Metro Mystery Bus Challenge. While I am heartened by the prognosis of rain on Friday, my gutters are iced over. I will not use a blow-torch to unclog them but I will be thinking of creative, non-destructive ways to unclog them (Putty knives, the dog-nasty salt…). I may just get a blue tarp out and direct the water away from the foundation when it comes.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (6:39 am)

    JayDee, when this is all over, when I compile a list of the memorable phrases from Snowpocalypse ’08, Metro Mystery Bus Challenge will be right up there … TR

  • Paula December 24, 2008 (6:44 am)

    Hubby just walked out the door at 4400 block of Charlestown Street heading for the bus. Snowing like crazy here, all road tracks from last night are covered this morning. I’ll let you know how he does on getting to work.

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (6:47 am)

    I just heard on KING 5 News, there was a story about sand vs salt. They say that sand is worse for the waterways than salt is…..BREAK OUT THE DANG SALT SEATTLE !!!!!!!!!! It is raining in places….Bellevue and Tacoma !!!! That’s a good sign.

  • Magpie December 24, 2008 (6:47 am)

    I needed a laugh..thanks! Hubby gets to stay home today..I wonder if I should have him cook the roast beast or freeze it for another day…I am leaving for my turn at the Metro Mystery bus challenge..will let you know how it goes!

  • Rachel December 24, 2008 (6:50 am)

    Has anyone made it down Admiral and over the bridge?

  • Ahmed December 24, 2008 (6:50 am)

    One of my chains broke yesterday so I have to get a new pair. Anyone know if stores are sold out of those And what the closest place to the Ferry is? I went to Schucks on Roxbury, so if I go back there I gotta walk it.

  • lovey911 December 24, 2008 (6:52 am)

    I wrote to SDOT yesterday asking why Alki/Harbor Ave are not even secondary routes on their snow/sand map, given the number of people who live along the beach. Here is a response from James Hathaway, Pavement Manager for SDOT: “I received your letter today suggesting SDOT consider including Alki and Harbor Avenue as primary of secondary snow routes. When we do a seasonal review of our response and the plan I will include your input.”

  • cathy December 24, 2008 (6:54 am)

    Snowing hard in Alki, but my thermometer says it is above freezing.

  • Shell Marr December 24, 2008 (6:54 am)

    Got a call from hubby to say he made it to work in Kirkland (snowing there too). When he started out he was parked on Holden facing 35th. He has 4WD, but no studs or chains. He noticed that a lady was having a hard time getting up the hill so he was going to turn around and take Delridge instead. He tapped the brake and magic…. he was facing toward Delridge……OMG!!! If it were me… I’d if parked and got myself back inside to change my underwear and call it day!! LOL

    So, long story….. Holden is really bad….Delridge is a little slick in places but the rest of his drive was no problem.

    MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE!! :)

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (6:55 am)

    The reporter on KING 5 just said that people are calling into KING 5 because they want the hotline to the mayors office because they want to talk to him about the road conditions.

  • d December 24, 2008 (6:55 am)

    I just wanted to take a moment on this gorgeous Christmas Eve morning to say how thankful I am to live in West Seattle. We are the most fortunate neighborhood to have such an amazing blog like this with all the up to day posts. I don’t know where we’d be without you! The merchants and neighbors have also been so giving and helpful. In the midst of all this snow, I have gotten so much excercise walking and shoveling that I feel like I can eat a few more treats! The snow has really brought a sense of giving and community. Enjoy it everyone…it could be gone tomorrow.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (6:57 am)

    well, you don’t have to call some TV station to get the mayor’s #. mayoral contact info:
    http://seattle.gov/mayor

    actually here’s the direct page – the “participate” page has the phone #
    http://seattle.gov/mayor/Participate.htm

    There’s also a mayoral discussion going on in the WSB Forums re: who should challenge Hizzoner in next year’s election. Nobody seems to have a real suggestion yet. He won landslide re-election in 2005 against nominal opposition.
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/forum/topic.php?id=3154

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (7:01 am)

    It’s snowing hard in Arbor Heights, but not really sticking….very wet, almost rain.

  • CMP December 24, 2008 (7:03 am)

    Just made it to Sodo and the roads seemed fine. I think California was plowed last night and now it’s easier to navigate except for the center lane that has a foot or more of snow in it. The bridge is starting to accumulate more snow and I saw no plows on it. I did see two Metro buses on the bridge heading west towards 35th, but the routes weren’t posted so I have no idea of where they were going. If I had to ride the bus today, I’d give up now and not waste time waiting for one to show up.

  • d. December 24, 2008 (7:07 am)

    …snowing hard in the Junction and has been for a couple of hours…the grader worked over California pretty hard last night (4800 block SW) and got it down to pavement….now it’s covered in new snow :(

  • herongrrrl December 24, 2008 (7:11 am)

    On the south side of Alki point the weather can’t decide what it’s doing…we’ve had snow, rain, mix, lather, rinse, repeat for about an hour now. From the sounds of things on the porch there is a lot of melting going on down here…guess we’ll see…

  • tiffany December 24, 2008 (7:14 am)

    I am grateful that I am off the remainder of the week! My dog is due a good walk today so if you see us making doggie snow angels, come join! At least he loves this stuff!

  • WSTEE December 24, 2008 (7:17 am)

    Just came in down Admiral. Everyone was going very slow. It seems ok but the temp is at the place where it could be tricky. Bridge was ok. We followed a sand truck on the viaduct. It was only icey going up the incline onto the viaduct. Downtown was the best it has been all week. They plowed first and second by my building! Regardless, I am headed home in a couple of hours. Have a great holiday season (if that is your thing)! And thanks to WSB. I am thankful for all of the helpful information!

  • Stephen December 24, 2008 (7:17 am)

    I watched the grader go up and down Holden last night clearing away the packed snow to reveal the wet slush on the pavement, allowing to to freeze and be slippery. So here’s my question – if they know it’s going to snow more, why do they remove the snow pack? Perhaps they know something I don’t about icy conditions?

    Shell and d – I think the side streets w/o snow removal are much safer than graded streets.

  • Shell Marr December 24, 2008 (7:23 am)

    I agree Stephen…. I came all the way down Holden last nigt from 35th on the packed snow and had no problems, now I’m chicken to get back on the road. I need to be in Edmonds at noon. EEkkk…

  • linda December 24, 2008 (7:28 am)

    Just had a co-worker coming into West Seattle on the bridge, he has 4WD and had no problems but others on the bridge were driving like it was slippery. We made it on Fauntleroy, down Avalon and onto Spokane Street with FWD and chains and had no problems. Took it slow and ignored the car on our tail trying to get us to go faster.
    LOL several times, thanks to all!
    Personally, I think a White Christmas is higly over-rated and am now dreaming of a grey, wet Christmas!

  • ZS December 24, 2008 (7:30 am)

    Just drove into Sodo. Lower bridge, Alaska Way, Royal Brougham. Slow and steady in the AWD Subaru but no problems.

  • Paula December 24, 2008 (7:30 am)

    Hubby caught the 55 at 7:10. WS bridge no problem and currently on the viaduct to take Seneca Street exit. Hope this info helps someone out there!

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (7:35 am)

    I’m dreaming of a grey, wet Christmas also Linda !!! Sounds so much better…and we’d be able to drive to where we need to be rather than stuck in the house and be a sroogy Christmas like it might be for me.

  • Christmas Gifts have Arrived December 24, 2008 (7:35 am)

    I have to make an observation that the USPS really does delivery through rain, sleet and snow…..UPS however…are a bunch of pansies. They seem to not be able to even come close to our area in Gatewood Whats up with that ? Anyone notice the same thing ?

  • Scott December 24, 2008 (7:38 am)

    Started snowing at 3 AM.

  • BG39 December 24, 2008 (7:39 am)

    I’m so glad we changed our christmas plans to this weekend, now we can actually just stay at home and enjoy the snow instead of having to drive in it

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (7:39 am)

    I’m happy to report it’s RAINING IN ARBOR HEIGHTS !!, RAINING IN ARBOR HEIGHTS !!, RAINING IN ARBOR HEIGHTS !!

  • littlebrowndog December 24, 2008 (7:40 am)

    49th and Dawson—it’s raining.

  • Diane December 24, 2008 (7:43 am)

    Has anyone had problems with taking the #21 or #54 from 35th and Barton area going downtown? And mostly, any problems using these 2 routes coming ‘home’ from downtown? What is approx. wait and are they running “all the way home”?
    Thanks !

  • Brian December 24, 2008 (7:45 am)

    As of about 7:15, the bridge heading east had not been plowed and it was a dangerous adventure. I did see a plow heading in the opposite direction.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (7:45 am)

    Diane – I just mentioned a Facebook message from Holly who joked that she had caught the 54 this morning in “less than 2 hours.” Meantime, Christmas Gifts, we’ve seen UPS the past two nights up here just south of the Gatewood border, but we’re at the intersection of 2 arterials so they don’t have to go far on the side streets to make it in …

  • John December 24, 2008 (7:48 am)

    Re: the #56 bus at 61st and Alki: The 5:30, 6:00 and 6:30 did not show. At 6:50, two #56s showed. Everyone piled onto the first one because the second one wasn’t departing until 7:00. The bus took the lower bridge and went down 1st Ave. S.

  • Jenny December 24, 2008 (7:51 am)

    It must be getting slicker on Admiral. A car just slid out and got stuck on the “snow median”. I didn’t see it happen, but I’d guess the car was headed east.

    Another guy has stopped to help. There is still a lane, but it will be slow getting past. This is just east of Walnut.

  • artemesia December 24, 2008 (7:57 am)

    mixed snow and rain now in our neighborhood…46th/Andover

  • Preggo December 24, 2008 (7:58 am)

    Slurry of rain/snow mix down in Fairmount Springs.

  • JenV December 24, 2008 (7:59 am)

    I don’t want to alarm anyone, but it looks like it’s snowing outside.

  • Brenda December 24, 2008 (7:59 am)

    We are at elevation 75′ on Fauntleroy between the Ferry dock and Lincoln Park. It is raining and Fauntleroy is clear down to the pavement. A sanding truck just went by heading north.

  • JenV December 24, 2008 (7:59 am)

    *wink*

  • ChristineDS December 24, 2008 (8:03 am)

    Can somebody explain to me why the poster above should be irate that Alki isn’t considered a primary arterial for purposes of plowing?

    There are plenty of main streets in WS, and I don’t see a lot of people complaining about the lack of plows on, say, 16th… an arterial that happens to house a community college.

  • Morganlf December 24, 2008 (8:04 am)

    It appears to be snowing in Gatewood right now. The wind is picking up as well.

    Stay safe everyone!

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (8:07 am)

    It was raining now mostly a rain/snow mix….but very wet. The wind is now picking up a bit.

  • JW December 24, 2008 (8:07 am)

    Snow/rain mix on Genesee Hill – anyone else having DTV issues (no signal)???? Maybe my dish fell off………..

  • Joleen December 24, 2008 (8:07 am)

    No mail whatsoever on our street since Wednesday last week. I live on Pigeon Hill…

  • 16th & Trenton December 24, 2008 (8:08 am)

    Dumping on Highland Park. Sweet.

  • Jen December 24, 2008 (8:13 am)

    I got lucky & caught a 120 @ Delridge & Orchard just as I walked up at 7:30. Delridge is slushy but passable. The bus crawled up the WS bridge, then picked up a little more speed the rest of the way into the city. Westbound on the WS bridge just past the Delridge exit, a car had run into the back of a snowplow. The exit ramp wasn’t affected, and the far left lane was open, but the two right lanes were blocked. However, there wasn’t enough westbound traffic to cause any kind of a backup, at least not at the time (about 7:35).

  • Anne December 24, 2008 (8:14 am)

    We’re just off Morgan St at 39th-still snowing heavily here.Wanted to give a big thank you to our wonderful neighborhood grocery store-Thriftway.They had their own little snowplow keeping the parking lot & entrance managable.They even had Santa at the store yesterday handing out candy & thanking everyone for their patronage.Plus every employee I talked to or saw was upbeat & friendly-really a pleasure given the sometomes stressful conditions.Also-a big thanks to everyone working to make deliveries of any kind-especially to our great mail & paper carriers-we live up high on a hill with TONS of snow & they haven’t missed a day!

  • Junctionite December 24, 2008 (8:14 am)

    My advice after it taking 2 1/2 hours to get back to West Seattle from Downtown on Metro last night is don’t take the bus downtown unless you absolutely have no choice. I waited over 1 1/2 hrs on Third for a 55 or 54 and it either never came or was already packed. Metro called a police officer at one point to pull extra people off a too crowded bus. A truly unpleasant experience!

  • linda December 24, 2008 (8:14 am)

    Raining at Delridge Way and Andover!! Now if it would just rain enough to clear the roads a bit more and not leave us with a skating rink over night…..

  • lenamegan December 24, 2008 (8:14 am)

    How is Marine View Drive? I’m supposed to see a client later today. My largest concern is parking as I will not go down the long steep driveway. I have chains but low clearance and that has been my main problem.

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (8:18 am)

    We didn’t get our mail yesterday…first day we haven’t received it. Also UPS told me yesterday that they were backlogged and that my package isn’t lost it is just waiting to be delivered. I’ve seen a UPS truck on our road the last couple of days with no stop here.

  • Gina December 24, 2008 (8:18 am)

    Yesterday afternoon, a small boy and his mother came down the steps at the West Seattle Library. They were ahead of me on the sidewalk path walking toward Metropolitan Market. Mother said something to small boy.

    Small boy exclaims–

    “No more snow Mommy!

    I hhhhhate snow.”

  • ArborHeightsMom December 24, 2008 (8:19 am)

    Marine View Drive was awful last night — very bumpy and icy. Have not yet seen cars go up and down this morning but will check. If you can park parallel to the street on the top of the driveway, that might work…

  • artemesia December 24, 2008 (8:20 am)

    Can anyone tell me what California is like from Charlestown up to Admiral this morning? Finally got the car dug out last night and parked up the hill and need to make a serious grocery run.

  • Kayleigh December 24, 2008 (8:22 am)

    I’ve never wanted to see rain so much in my life.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (8:22 am)

    Anne – we have shown photos of the snow-clearing guy at Thriftway a couple times during Winter Wackiness ’08 (I’m not totally sold on Snowpocalypse). Definitely a welcome sight.

    Gina – Junior Member of the Team has gone through those stages in recent days. All the way from “I want to stay up till we see it snow and then we can go out in it!” to “Not more frickin’ SNOW!” He thinks there will be no Christmas because he hasn’t seen anyone go shopping … he doesn’t read the site so I can say that he will be wrong, co-publisher Patrick managed to make it out for a while yesterday. His only wish was for a wireless router so we could stop fighting over the higher-speed connection (we have an aircard too but it’s not as fast), and I’m finally giving in.

  • Lytepipe December 24, 2008 (8:23 am)

    Diane: I left work at 2 yesterday to catch a 54/55 to West Seattle and waited until 4 before it came. The bus was more full than I had ever seen it. We ended up taking a very indirect route home down 3rd to 2nd to 4th and then on to I-5 South to the Alaskan way viaduct. Finally got to the junction at 5. I waited about 10 mind for a 51/55 to Admiral but was so cold I just started walking. It wasn’t until I was already to PCC that the 55 passed me. I made it to Admiral junction at 5:35. That is 3.5 hours!

    I’m working from home today. In the words of people on the bus, “Metro will get you there but getting back you’re on your own.”
    Good luck everyone and Happy Holidays!

  • pabloa3 December 24, 2008 (8:25 am)

    anyone have any further news on the situation at SeaTac?

    http://www.kirotv.com/news/18352768/detail.html

  • P December 24, 2008 (8:25 am)

    Had to take a friend to the airport this morning. we got there at 5:50 for his 8:30 flight, and within 25 minutes including a bathroom stop he was at his gate. That was even with checking luggage. Alaska is the airline. Hint to others, when checking your luggage, go to the center part of the agents. Both ends had these huge lines and the middle section had 1 or 2 people in each line. It seemed quiet and operating pretty good out there. Although there was a Mountain of luggage.

  • P December 24, 2008 (8:26 am)

    eye irritation due to deicer that got in the vent system.

  • Greg December 24, 2008 (8:30 am)

    Two days without mail in Arbor Heights.

    I thought this was odd until I read this quote on the U.S. Post Office website:

    “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds. Unless you’re in West Seattle when it snows. Because then you’re screwed.”

  • Andrea December 24, 2008 (8:31 am)

    Still dumping in highland park!

  • Peaches December 24, 2008 (8:32 am)

    JW-My dish is out as well. Likely due to wet snow accumulated on the dish (mine is on my highest roofline–no way I’m going up there to clean it off!). Should clear once the snow is washed/melted off. My TV is flickering with various messages–good sign that the system is trying to acquire a signal.

  • changingtimes December 24, 2008 (8:35 am)

    HELP!!! i need to get to the top of queen ann today what is the best route? has anyone been there since the storm? usually when it snows i just follow the number 4 bus route but it has been cancelled. should i just park at the bottem and bring my hiking boots?

  • stina December 24, 2008 (8:36 am)

    It’s snaining here, on Genesee Hill, according to my husband – 48th and Genesee. I think that means a snow/rain mix.

  • yo December 24, 2008 (8:37 am)

    @ 7am, I drove on Fauntleroy

    from Alaska
    to the west seattle bridge
    to I-5 southbound
    to SR 518
    to airport exit
    to cargo road exit

    Notes:

    1. It was still cold enough that it snowed the entire way at 7-745am (no rain).

    1a. We have a front-wheel drive Jetta.

    2. Slid a bit coming down the West seattle bridge a little bit past the ‘bronzed’ children artwork.

    3. Diciest part of entire trip was coming up from the lowpoint of the west seattle bridge (next to Nucor Steel) to the high point of the bridge. I drove 25 mph the entire way. Fish-tailed a bit the entire ascent. Once, almost drifted into another lane. FYI – We have regular tires, but they are excellent condition.

    4. I-5 was okay….drove 35 mph of the way. Everyone else was driving 50mph (mostly SUVs). Changing lanes is a bit tough with the snow buildup on the lane lines, but manageable.

    5. SR518 was fairly good considering it was snowing. Saw 4 snowplows on SR 518 and International BLVD in total.

  • karen December 24, 2008 (8:37 am)

    The Seattle Stopage
    The Week Seattle Stood Still
    Saltless in Seattle

  • Mo December 24, 2008 (8:38 am)

    Just got word that Public Health — all public health sites and administration at 5th & Jefferson, are closed today. Since Public Health is usually the last of the county departments to close, I’ll bet most other parts of the county are closed as well — except Metro (Ha!), EMTs, Medical Examiners and others . . .

    I was just about ready to go try and get a 54 downtown again — after failing in my efforts on Monday and Tuesday. Here’s hoping Monday, 12/29, brings some semblance of normalcy!

  • snowedin December 24, 2008 (8:38 am)

    Anyone else worried about flooding? Where is all this snow going to melt away to? Any tips?

  • Dave December 24, 2008 (8:39 am)

    Luckily I’m able to work from home today. It has seemed like I’ve spent more time commuting to and from work than actually working.

    I’m in Arbor Heights and we are getting a snow/rain mix (it keeps switching back and forth).

    We have been getting the paper, but no mail delivery on Monday or Tuesday. I’ve seen the mail go by on 106th, but not coming down all the side streets.

  • lg December 24, 2008 (8:41 am)

    JW & peaches I’m at 53rd & charlestown and have no directv either. first time all storm (and it’s rare that we lose our signal at all).

  • SB December 24, 2008 (8:44 am)

    FYI – saw two differnt UPS trucks on my street in Arbor Heights yesterday.

  • Megan B December 24, 2008 (8:45 am)

    @ Changing times:
    I also work on top of QA and have made it ok to the top while driving- we just avoided the steep hills and stuck to the most traveled routes. Today, however, I couldn’t even get off of my own street. My neighbor described it as this: “mayonnaise smeared on an ice rink”. Be careful whatever way you choose.

  • JenV December 24, 2008 (8:46 am)

    when we were out at Westwood Village on Saturday, we saw a UPS driver. I said to him that I admired his dedication. he said “it’s the $43 per hour that gets us out here!”

  • linda December 24, 2008 (8:48 am)

    Just spoke to the person at home, I had him reboot our DTV box and it acquired a signal.

  • Jen December 24, 2008 (8:50 am)

    We’ve been very fortunate in our neighborhood near Riverview Playfield to have gotten our mail every day, on time. Our USPS carrier is made of awesome! We also got all our UPS & FedEx deliveries in time for Christmas.

  • Megan B December 24, 2008 (8:51 am)

    Oh! I forgot to add this to my QA hill comment- my boss up there today said it’s bad. They said don’t try without chains and 4WD.
    That being said- we’ve made it up from the north side of QA- 15th to Nickerson to 3 AveW to Mc Graw to QA ave.

  • karen December 24, 2008 (8:52 am)

    Just spoke with hubby. He has to be out driving today – with chains. He thinks it’s not that bad and that I can do OK to get out. So, I am going to try for Fred Meyer this morning. Is there anyone in my area (18th and Cloverdale-ish) who needs anything?
    I would be happy to arrange with you – send me a note and I’ll try. I know this has upset my Christmas plans and even Santa seems to have had a hard time this week!

    kvegors at gmail dot com

  • GeneseeHillMike December 24, 2008 (8:52 am)

    Just finished shoveling walk/drive/sidewalk (new personal best – 35 minutes). On Genesee Hill, we got about 1.5″ to 2″ of the kind that makes good snowballs and snowmen (and doesn’t coming rolling back down off the now 4′ pile if you can’t throw high enough). It was snow right down to the pavement (no slush or ice), but once I shoveled, the little bit that is still coming down is not sticking but turning wet. There is still a fine “mist” of mixed snow and rain, almost hard to see unless you are in it (and if you face south into the wind, it feels like little needles on your face). I’ve only seen two vehicles go by(both SUVs) in the 53rd/Charlestown area. It has been very quiet most days since none of the streets up here are plowed.

  • Mo December 24, 2008 (8:53 am)

    Snowmageddon ’08 turning to Slush Tsunami ’08

  • Peaches December 24, 2008 (8:54 am)

    Just got Dish Network signal back!

  • sw December 24, 2008 (8:54 am)

    Just made it to SODO from Gatewood via 35th and The Bridge. Roads were very passable – some ice but mostly slushy as it’s all melting. I do have a Toyota van with AWD, but I didn’t see any vehicles having problems.

    Only saw one bus – a 22 making the turn onto 35th from Alaska.

    Slow and sane, folks.

  • Megen December 24, 2008 (8:57 am)

    So I am in Wisconsin currently visiting my family. Flew into Minneapolis airport yesterday. It was a breeze.
    Being back in Wisconsin when there is still snow on the roads (the side roads) but since they don’t compact it we are able to make nice ruts and see pavement where the wheels go! The highways are clear and even though it stays below freezing with the salt the roads stay wet but never re-freeze! I almost miss Wisconsin again!
    Anywho, just wanted to say good luck to everyone with their traveling they have the next two days and stay safe! I hope when we come back on the 28th all of this is melted!!!

  • Deb in Morgan Junction December 24, 2008 (8:59 am)

    Just drove from Morgan Junction to South Boeing Field area. Slow going but not bad. Slushy and wet on I-5. Saw a Mercedes going west on WS bridge spin a few times and smack into the guard rail, thought for sure he was going over the side, hope he’s ok. Scary stuff. Be careful everyone! Merry Christmas!

  • P December 24, 2008 (9:00 am)

    we have had mail every day on 28th ave sw and 109th. However a UPS truck got stuck at the end of 109th last night, they pulled him and the 1st tow truck out with another tow truck…..
    On another note, does anyone know if any of the bars/establishments are open till say 8 tonight?

  • JenV December 24, 2008 (9:04 am)

    my xmas plans got canceled. any bars open tomorrow? other than the Yen Wor? ;)

  • artemesia December 24, 2008 (9:04 am)

    Anyone know what time the liquor store is closing today?

  • Rhonda December 24, 2008 (9:09 am)

    Any suggestions on the best route from Burien to the north end of Beach? I was thinking 16th to Delridge (should I take the 17th cutoff or drive through white center?) Then at the bridge should I take admiral down to 63rd or drive along Harbor/Alki to 63rd? Thanks.. from your soon-to be-west-seattle-neighbor (if I can get down to beach and actually get the key!) :)

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (9:09 am)

    Artem – 6 pm
    http://www.liq.wa.gov/releases/pr081217.asp

  • Gretch December 24, 2008 (9:13 am)

    Just read the update about garbage. We’ve only been missed one week, so not a big deal for us. For those of you who are swimming in garbage, we have two extra cans that we could loan you for the week. We bought them to cart zoo-doo home in. They were lined in garbage bags, so completely clean and brand new (not that that really matters I suppose since they’re garbage cans!). Just sitting in our carport. I think they’re 32 gal size. Email me at ghar72 at gmaildotcom if you’d like one. I’m at 17th and Thistle. Probably going out today to the Junction around 11ish. We could drop them off to you if you are on the way and aren’t on a scary hill or you can pick up.

  • onlineshoes_ce December 24, 2008 (9:16 am)

    Just got a ride from husband to down town from the Junction area. It is currently snowing downtown. California is better this morning, Alaska is still dicey, and Fauntleroy is OK, but a little narrow for 2 vehicles with snow berms on median & shoulder. WSB was passable – just take it easy. More people seemed to be out on 1-5 this morning with wet & slush on roadway. Some downtown streets are cleared & just wet while others are still very deep with slush.

  • mar3c December 24, 2008 (9:16 am)

    artemesia: looks like 6 pm for state-run stores:

    http://liq.wa.gov/releases/pr081217.asp

    i was just checking myself.

  • Angelina December 24, 2008 (9:19 am)

    No #21 busses passed in the hour I was out waiting on 35th Ave. None going north or south.

  • artemesia December 24, 2008 (9:19 am)

    Thanks TR and mar3c!

  • JH December 24, 2008 (9:21 am)

    JW, both my TVS have been out since last weekend. Apparently I may have had a power surge and blew them out! Dumb me. I was hoping it was my satellite dish but DirectTV said it wasn’t. I guess now I can buy that new TV I’ve always wanted…haha.

  • tiffany December 24, 2008 (9:24 am)

    In regards to possible flooding, please check your curbside drains outside your house or apartment building or alley. Make sure that they are uncovered so that the melting snow has a path to follow.

  • MargL December 24, 2008 (9:31 am)

    We got both mail and a UPS delivery yesterday at around 4:30/5pm in Arbor Heights (104th and 34th). So there’s HOPE folks who have been missed will be delivered to today. :-)

  • Michelle December 24, 2008 (9:31 am)

    Does anyone know if there’s a city website we can use to locate our storm drains? I think there’s one in front of my neighbor’s house but he’s out of town…I’d like to clear it to help keep the street from flooding but I’m not sure if I’m up for shoveling the entire length of his large lot to look for it…

  • Larry December 24, 2008 (9:32 am)

    Looks like the BIG MELT is on!

  • DWS December 24, 2008 (9:33 am)

    Riddle me this: Why would KIRO 7 and KING 5 etc. not have their cameras staked out at the Mayors office and house jamming a microphone in his face to answer for the gross neglegence of the city response to this minor crisis. How is this man going to be held accountable. Seattle is a laughing stock thanks to this “leadership”.

  • cjboffoli December 24, 2008 (9:40 am)

    Oregon between Fauntleroy and California is still a slippery mess of slush and ice ruts. There seems to be good slushy/sandy tracks on the way up the hill. And at least one rut on the downhill is slush and sand. Right hand side is sitll ice. I’m seeing people in 4-wheel drive still having trouble turning out of alleys and side streets onto the main streets. The section of Oregon downhill from 39th to Fauntleroy is closed. I did see some vehicles risking it. But it is still covered with thick ice which now has a coat of water on top of it. Very slick. Please be careful.

  • B'sMomma December 24, 2008 (9:43 am)

    I just read this on komonews.com…. I Love it…..”Friday will see a warmer storm and is finally the knight that slays the snow dragon”.

  • Roland December 24, 2008 (9:46 am)

    For what it’s worth, UPS delivered a package to our house (west of PCC) after 9:00 p.m. on Monday evening. I wouldn’t want to be driving those trucks through unplowed, hilly neighborhoods like ours. I think they and everyone else who is manning the plows, ambulances, delivery trucks, and other service vehicles deserves our thanks and whatever bonus pay they receive.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (9:47 am)

    Please keep reading my ongoing updates in the main text atop the comments. I have posted the link to side sewer cards, which might give you a hint. I will check with SPU regarding any other info they may have. Also on another topic, since somebody asked me in e-mail – the ongoing list of churches with Christmas Eve services is on the HOLIDAYS page (click the tab beneath the sunset header on any WSB page). I am still checking with some other churches so it is NOT yet COMPLETE – but it’s a running list and I will mention it in the main text of the ongoing updates when it’s done – TR

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (9:49 am)

    DWS – because they don’t have enough people to do stakeouts. I spent 20+ years in TV news management and I can tell you that right now they have about three reporters and five photographers per station just trying to cover the snow effects (holiday week staff – usually there’s a couple more). Citywide newspapers have much larger reporting staffs. That said, I wrote this last night and will say it again, the mayor needs to have a news conference or briefing – I am going to check with his communications staff to see if there are any plans. He had two briefings Saturday night when nothing much was happening, and then pretty much vanished (at least from media visibility, so far as I can tell).

  • swimcat December 24, 2008 (9:56 am)

    I was at the top of Queen Anne hill last night for a party (got home around 10:30pm)- the roads were compact snow and ice and very bumpy. We took north 99 (which is totally fine) and drove up the back side, near Canlis. If you have 4WD, AWD or chains you’ll be fine if you drive a reasonable speed. It was no worse than driving around here I thought.

  • swimcat December 24, 2008 (9:57 am)

    I’m going into snow withdrawal too- I want more! I love West Seattle but I think I need to move to a mountain town. Seems like I’m the only person who could get used to living like this all winter long. Merry Christmas everyone!

  • GenHillOne December 24, 2008 (9:58 am)

    I wonder if we haven’t seen the mayor because he flew to a warmer climate for Christmas, leaving us with this mess.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (10:09 am)

    Swimcat, I think you hit the nail on the proverbial head – “get used to living like this” – When you know you have to, you just figure out how. We are so used around here to snow that falls, looks nice for a lady, then gets rained away, that these every-decade-or-so lingering snows just flummox most of us because we keep thinking, it’ll go away. I know I’m guilty of that.

  • KSJ December 24, 2008 (10:11 am)

    Grocery report: Met Market is getting busy this morning. They had a half full parking lot, a lot of people coming in on foot, and five or six checkout lanes open with three people deep. (That’s busy for the Met.) They were well-stocked and currently restocking in the produce, meat and dairy aisles, and are open until 6 p.m. tonight.

    The walk there was slickery and rainy. I made the mistake of crossing California at Walker and had to step over the 2.5′ high center median of snow – not easy with uncertain footing!

  • Jen December 24, 2008 (10:11 am)

    FWIW, I saw a 54 bus at about 9:30 turning south onto Second Ave off of Columbia, heading out of downtown toward West Seattle. It was maybe 1/2 full.

  • Babs December 24, 2008 (10:11 am)

    Just went to Allstar (open to 4) went down Avalon (wet, pavement – fine!) but I took the longgggggggg way under the bridge, the hill at Yancy looks too icy dicey. I was in a Honda Element and coming back I took the same under the bridge route back to Avalon. That was fine and dandy. (If your game you can wash your car just by stopping under the freeway slush pouring down under there!) Cheers to all.

  • JayDee December 24, 2008 (10:12 am)

    Success! I’ve cleared two downspouts and 50 feet of gutter. Sure, one Revereware tea kettle at a time, but progress is progress. Better than having the basement get water in it, like 1996…

  • DWS December 24, 2008 (10:22 am)

    I do understand that resources are thin these days around TV stations and everywhere else for that matter. However, the gravity of the situation demands a response and the television camera is a most effective tool for this. There are plenty of resources dedicated to traffic and snow news. If the mayor does not want to schedule a news conference, force one on him.

  • sa December 24, 2008 (10:24 am)

    “Can somebody explain to me why the poster above should be irate that Alki isn’t considered a primary arterial for purposes of plowing?”

    I think it is a valid suggestion myself and not just because I live in the neighborhood. When the roads are in the icy condition they have been in for the last week and a half, West Seattle’s hills have bee especially dangerous. I have noticed many people using the guaranteed flattest route to downtown via Harbor / Alki / Beach dr recently. I have been driving the long way around all along the beach myself to avoid the uncertainty of any slippery hills and I have not been alone.

    SDOT develops these maps without any consideration of people’s actual behavior. For many people in West Seattle, the safest route has been flat along the water. This is why it is surprising that there has been no effort to plow and sand.

  • angelescrest December 24, 2008 (10:34 am)

    Yep, sa. I second that. All of my neighbors have been getting to work via Alki-Harbor.

  • Helen December 24, 2008 (10:34 am)

    Here at the 18th Ave SW Tiki Hut, it’s raining and the snow is melting and falling off my roof. Peter, my normally squirrely Russian Blue/Manx mix cat, is just about losing his mind watching the snow as it falls down in big wet glops.
    Thankfully the only place I have to be today is downtown for a dinner reservation at 6:30.
    Stay safe and warm out there!

  • Gina December 24, 2008 (10:35 am)

    And it isn’t IF it floods, it is WHEN it floods…

    So glad I don’t live along the Genessee Hill river any more!

  • changingtimes December 24, 2008 (10:47 am)

    im about to try the backway up queen ann….sooo sooo scary!!!

  • Venkat December 24, 2008 (10:50 am)

    Barely made it out of Seattle on Sunday evening. Paid high price for a town car to get me to the airport but it would be a higher price to miss the plane. Also had to wait for 1 hour while they were de-icing the plane.
    Currently in Europe enjoying some snow-free days. Sorry to hear things are still bad for West Seattleites. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and hoping things will get better soon!!
    Thanks to the WSB for the great coverage on the snow storm!

  • StephenHJ December 24, 2008 (10:53 am)

    Just got down to the Uptown at Delridge and Roxbury from Highpoint. Some of the packed stuff on SW Raymond is starting to break up between 32nd & 35th. 35th to Andover is wet & sandy. Andover is almost clear of slush now, and Delridge is pretty clear as well. Traffic is moving onto the bridge from Delridge without trouble. The lot here is pretty busy.

  • linda December 24, 2008 (10:55 am)

    JenV: pouring at my house, currently no real plans for Christmas day at this time so open to suggestions if our road clears.

  • PP December 24, 2008 (10:56 am)

    JH – have a spare TV, think its a 19 incher if you would like it to hold you over till you get the one of your dreams. Or anyone else for that matter/ Suspect after Santa visits, there will be many extras available.
    Email me at seattleamiga@yahoo.com if you would like.
    PP

  • Larry December 24, 2008 (11:01 am)

    Just cleaned the storm drain at the end of the alley. Good thing too cuz it was clogged with more than snow. Dirt, grass, leaves…

  • snowedin December 24, 2008 (11:11 am)

    Regarding the state-of-the-city, you’d think that they would get more trucks to handle these roads. Each winter just gets worse. The lack of trucks in each area to plow the main roads is insane-it’s taken way too long! It isn’t safe to have so many roads that are not driveable! Shall we hold a bakesale to buy more trucks?! :)

  • k December 24, 2008 (11:13 am)

    Please do check your gutters and downspouts–
    yesterday we discovered water in two places in our house.
    Hubbie spent majority of the day breaking ice, taking down downspouts, and clearing what snow he could reach off the roof without going on it. Using a blowdryer, tea kettle and an axe he got it cleared.

  • Kayleigh December 24, 2008 (11:17 am)

    Those of you talking about needing more sanding trucks, salt, Metro service, etc: what are you willing to give up to get it? Budget or service cuts in police, city parks, or other city services? Job layoffs of city employees?

    (This is the same city that had a collective seizure over a surcharge on plastic bags and that fought repeatedly over the monorail.)

    Or, heven forbid, are you willing to pay more taxes?

    When all this is over I would love to hear people’s constructive solutions. I sure don’t have any, because I think in all areas of life, you get what you pay for.

    –Kayleigh, who has lost hundreds of dollars in pay, has been cooped up and stressed, who can’t stay warm in the snow, and who is willing to pay increased taxes so this NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN

  • Ken December 24, 2008 (11:17 am)

    Checking the KOMO4 weather site shows that the radar has not been updating since around 6:45 this morning.

    Anyone with contacts there might want to let them know.

    King5s maps are up to date but I miss the Winter Rain / Mix / Snow Radar on komo.

  • Margie December 24, 2008 (11:17 am)

    Thanks for the liquor store info, leaving work at 1 to brave yet another commute. Happy to walk home with refreshing beverages in tow. Too bad I have to work again on Friday.

    I had a 2 foot snow shelf off my house this morning, wonder if it will still be there when I get home…it was quite pretty, but probably really messing up my gutter.

  • JenV December 24, 2008 (11:17 am)

    linda: I emailed you but I think I only have the work email. we’ll be in touch!

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

    sooooo, what will we do with the extra plows for the next ten years when there is no snow?
    hmmmm?

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (11:26 am)

    I saw the first sight of birds in the last 10 days. We have choke berry trees and there must have been about 10 robins on them. I got a few pictures of them. Will send them soon.

  • Larry December 24, 2008 (11:29 am)

    I am probably the biggest Seattle city government hater out there and this is probably not the place for this discussion but I am willing to cut the mayor and the city some slack here. He has limited resources to work with, can’t control the weather, probably doesn’t have a lot of say how the crews do their work anyway. This is a once in a decade thing. DEAL WITH IT!

  • alkigirl December 24, 2008 (11:33 am)

    Hello neighbors! Does anyone know condition of Admiral from 63rd up to California? I have a Passat with normal tires – have to dig it out first but am considering a road adventure to Bartells and PCC! Thanks for any intel!

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (11:35 am)

    Larry, we can use the trucks we have but they just need to USE SALT !!!

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (11:35 am)

    Via e-mail, a rave from Kristen, and I’m posting it here because I don’t want the free Christmas tree news etc. to push back too far in the main narrative:

    >>the other night I ventured out to do some rogue
    sledding and got back to my place around 1:30 AM. Just as I was pulling
    into my spot I got stuck…really really stuck. Only about 2 feet from
    being completely parked…except that the back end of my car was now
    blocking the street. Given the time of night/morning, I wasn’t about to
    knock on a neighbors door.

    So naturally I called my insurance agency. They told me it would be an 8
    hour wait. They suggested I call the police. I felt like an idiot doing
    that, but I did b/c I needed help. The operator said it could be
    hours…and at 1:40 AM I wasn’t exactly excited about that prospect either.
    Lo and behold, not even 5 minutes later an officer was outside looking for
    me. I was inside going to put on my pjs and attempt to wait it out.

    He was kind and helpful and got me unstuck. We had a good laugh and it sure
    didn’t hurt that he was really cute in his uniform! Rave for the Southwest
    precinct!

    So might be a good reminder to readers that the police are helpful on many
    levels–and can probably be there faster than your insurnace agency with a
    tow. Non emergency number is 206-625-5011.<<

  • Concerned Citizen December 24, 2008 (11:36 am)

    Re: Alki/Harbor Av.

    It puzzles me that this flat route is not even a secondary street for snow plow considerations.

    But then, it also puzzles me why the bus service to Alki Beach is so pitiful year-round. This is one of our city’s best jewels and with our emphasis on public transit it’s hard to understand why there’s virtually no weekend service (except to one corner) and no service after 5pm on weekdays.

    This really makes no sense to me. After puzzling over the bus service situation last summer I can’t say I’m surprised about the lack of snow removal plans for the area.

    Explanations, please? Pretty please? Think of it as a Christmas present?

  • Concerned Citizen December 24, 2008 (11:38 am)

    Snowbound in Seattle (another nomination for monikers)

  • stb December 24, 2008 (11:38 am)

    Amen, Larry.

  • P December 24, 2008 (11:46 am)

    wsb, I know you are SLAMMED, but did you get the list of places open tonight, meaning restaurants? I saw you were working on a list on the 23rd. If not, no biggie, we will just stroll around till we find a spot!

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (11:47 am)

    Aside from a few things somebody posted in a thread yesterday, no, and people seem to be changing their plans based on the weather changes. West 5 comes to mind. One thing I can tell you – Pho 54 in White Center is open till 6 pm. We’re heading there within the hour!

  • P December 24, 2008 (11:51 am)

    thanks! we will just wander about until something looks good. No Pho for me, bad, bad, bad experience years ago and now I can’t even walk into one!

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (12:00 pm)

    I’m taking a vote in the next five minutes.
    Keep this post going through the afternoon or start a new one? Majority wins. Post a comment – it’ll take me too long to find some cool poll widget. Meantime we’re putting pix here of exactly what it looks like out there.

  • Cathy H December 24, 2008 (12:06 pm)

    For any of those holding back, Admiral is easy and doable even for those without 4W drive, from Beach Drive to California. If you go slow, you’ll just run into small patches of slush.

    The Metropolitan is jammed with people at midday, both inside and out, as was Safeway. So take some patience with you.

  • kevin December 24, 2008 (12:07 pm)

    live near 100th and 42nd SW. Any news how driving on 100th is? Want to go to Safeway.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (12:09 pm)

    OK – lack of votes defaults to, keep this post going :)

  • p December 24, 2008 (12:11 pm)

    ups truck just drove by, 109th and 28th ave sw. I think some of you in my area were waiting for packages….

  • epl December 24, 2008 (12:24 pm)

    Lightly raining here; 35th/Webster. The big Q of the day is will this all freeze tonight?

  • GenHillOne December 24, 2008 (12:24 pm)

    Has anyone with “EXCEPTION” (emergency road conditions) noted on their UPS package tracking page seen their delivery? Have one that was supposed to come between the 18-22 and haven’t seen it. We’re not far off California…:(

    I’m giving up hope for those that UPS has listed as “RESCHEDULED” but it would be wonderful to have at least the other by Friday.

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (12:28 pm)

    Has anyone been on 35th to Roxbury lately ? Need to get to the Safeway on Roxbury.

  • ddub December 24, 2008 (12:28 pm)

    kevin,
    i just drove down 100th to 35th then Roxbury. 100th is covered w/ ice/slush, very bumpy but doable. I have AWD but saw 2WD cars doing fine, going slow.
    went down roxbury, myers way to 509, 518 to airport and back. main roads, including myers way hill, and highways look surprisingly good.

  • ddub December 24, 2008 (12:36 pm)

    darren,
    35th south of roxbury is icy/bumpy but not too bad. plenty of cars going back and forth. roxbury to safeway is fine.

  • alkigirl December 24, 2008 (12:41 pm)

    Cathy H – THANKS so much for update on Admiral from Beach Drive to California. Away I go…..

  • Jackie December 24, 2008 (12:43 pm)

    Folks, its realy important that you all clear snow from your car roof. Its a major safety/road hazard. In places used to snow its actually a fine/penalty to drive with snow on your roof. It can blind you when you stop & it all slides down your windshield, it can also flip up & blind drivers behind you or, worst case, shatter windshields of the vehicles behind you and injure vehicle occupants if its icy enough…. Be safe & protect yourself, what’s a few more strokes with your brush to clear off you car? Its not a badge of courage to dirve with a foot of snow on your car roof!!!!!!!!

  • JH December 24, 2008 (12:48 pm)

    I just got done going to the junction, getting out and walking, going to pick up my daughter at the dentist’s office, and let me tell you something! The roads suck! I won’t even go into detail of the streets I went on, but there are stuck cars everywhere (even getting out of the post office parking lot). Some dumb truck was stuck on the hill going up from CA to Jefferson Square. I’m blanking out on the street. I’m so glad to be home and finally done with my shopping! Blech to the road conditions.

    PP-thanks! I have a portable DVD player but if I go really crazy, I’ll email you.

    Ddub-Your screen name sounds surprisingly familiar…

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (12:50 pm)

    ddub, thank you for that update. I think if we can get off of our road, SW 105th st, then I think we may go downtown or somewhere, just to get out. But we do need to get to Safeway.

  • Helen December 24, 2008 (12:59 pm)

    Wow! We just got a UPS delivery at the 18th Ave SW Tiki Hut. My husband’s birthday is today, so what a nice surprise for him.

    I hope anyone who’s expecting UPS deliveries gets theirs today too. :)

  • Aim December 24, 2008 (1:02 pm)

    GenHillOne: CALL UPS. I called and they brought mine out yesterday. I was a bit concerned because it was medication from my insurance co’s pharmacy and didn’t really want it sitting in a warehouse getting cold/warm/cold/warm. They are delaying the GROUND deliveries in favor of the 2-day and overnight stuff. But if you call they will try to get it out to you.

  • Jenava December 24, 2008 (1:03 pm)

    Am waiting for a package from UPS that’s been “out for delivery” since 9 AM on the 22nd…It’s hubby’s Christmas gift, and he’s supposed to open it tonight. I sure hope it comes…I wish it had been sent by FedEx, we’ve gotten two packages delivered by FedEx this week and just saw another truck delivering a package on our street today!

  • stb December 24, 2008 (1:06 pm)

    GenHillOne–Have not received any UPS or FedEx yesterday or today (on 41st near the Junction). Hope at least some of my packages make it or we’ll be having Christmas all week. I can see from the tracking some of them have been in town for at least three days.

  • arbor heights mom December 24, 2008 (1:08 pm)

    A UPS truck just made its way up Marine View Dr, slipping and fishtailing along the way. I received 3 boxes, for which I am grateful! Those people, along with the USPS, work very hard.

  • Lindsey December 24, 2008 (1:12 pm)

    I have a confession to make, fellow WSB folks. I moved here from South Dakota in January. About two weeks ago I said to a friend, “It just doesn’t feel like Christmas without snow.”

    My sincerest apologies.

  • linda December 24, 2008 (1:15 pm)

    Interesting comment by SDOT about working aggressively on the secondary streets, my Mom is on a designated secondary arterial per the SDOT map linked last week when this started. To date they have not had a single truck plow or sand her road. She even called the number posted last week and got on the list, no response.
    Wonder if she should even bother calling them again?

  • GenHillOne December 24, 2008 (1:23 pm)

    I just saw a USPS van, with chains, struggle up our hill for the first time since all this began. Looks like compact snow still, but…

    Thanks for the UPS sightings. Note to all delivery persons – our walkway is as clear as it’s been in a week (ice easily coming up in sheets with a garden spade). Come visit us anytime :)

    Thank you for the reminders about downspouts, I’ve been walking around hitting them every day since someone commented on it and it has definitely made a difference. Something oddly gratifying about hearing the ice come crashing down inside!

  • TR December 24, 2008 (1:27 pm)

    Hey all….we’re at lunch so I can’t get this into the main text…just got word the mayor is having a media avail at 2…anyone who can take notes if it’s on radio or tv and share, would be appreciated…..TR

  • kathy December 24, 2008 (1:41 pm)

    Mayor will address city concerns today at 2 pm. This should definitely be worth watching!

  • linda December 24, 2008 (2:01 pm)

    Sanding truck just showed up on my Mom’s street!

  • HTS December 24, 2008 (2:02 pm)

    What channel?

  • Katrina on Alki December 24, 2008 (2:04 pm)

    From the posts today it sounds like more people are driving, but I’m very curious if anyone has been successful getting from downtown to Alki on a bus. Has anyone been able to ride the 56 further than California today?

  • Sue December 24, 2008 (2:14 pm)

    HTS, he’s on Northwest Cable News right now

  • Patrick the Z December 24, 2008 (2:15 pm)

    I am down on 1st and Yesler and was wondering if anybody knew of where my best chance would be for a 55 or 54 to get back? ( I assume they are not traveling down 2nd and Columbia and hopping on the bridge yet.

    I got here on the 54’s stop on 3rd and Union if that helps. Thanks :)

  • Sue December 24, 2008 (2:17 pm)

    For some reason NWCN decided to cut off the live coverage right in the middle of it! Hopefully we can find it in its entirety online once it’s done.

  • sonic December 24, 2008 (2:18 pm)

    Wow, what a game of dodgeball that press conference was!!

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (2:31 pm)

    Anyone who watched, please share thoughts. I left a comment about it when we got the advisory just before 1:30 – we were completely out of position to go ourselves – just got home and I see my comment was held for approval because I left it via the iphone (if you leave a comment from an IP address that’s never had a comment approved for the site before, it will be held for us to approve … that’s part of a system that has protected the site from MORE THAN A MILLION spam comments so far this year alone). We had sent a note this morning asking if there would be a media availability or news conference and never got a direct answer – until the short notice e-mail about the avail came in.

  • Kathleen December 24, 2008 (2:32 pm)

    Here’s a city website that might prove useful to anyone looking to clear a storm drain. http://web1.seattle.gov/dpd/sidesewercardsv2/default.aspx

  • sonic December 24, 2008 (2:34 pm)

    Here’s my summary of the approximate 18 minute press conference. Mayor: “I think our response has been good, I’d rate it a B. Look, we all just need to be safe and watch out for each other. Merry Christmas!!” He dodged every question the reporters asked him (regarding response times, salt vs. sand, impact on economy, etc etc).

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (2:37 pm)

    We posted that earlier this morning (9:27 above), thanks for the repost. We’re going to set up a separate post with drainage/clearing info.

  • JW December 24, 2008 (2:42 pm)

    GenHillOne

    We’re on 55th and same UPS issue – the largest package with most Xmas gifts was returned to Seattle at 12:22 today according to Amazon tracking- so no Xmas gifts from online orders – I did get a couple of dog toys delivered by UPS 2 days ago so at least the kids will be happy….

    No mail Monday but got it yesterday cleverly hidden inside junk mail folder so I nearly threw it all out, today’s a crap shoot looking at the road conditions.

    Anyone else on Genesee Hill concerned with the state of the road considering how much melted snow is accumulating in deep ruts that will surely freeze tonight – at this point I’d welcome a plow with a lousy plastic coated blade!

    Peaches and JH – DTV came on shortly after first post – rain shadow or snow melt most likely cause.

    Keep smiling and have a safe and happy holiday all.

  • Holly December 24, 2008 (2:59 pm)

    The fastest/easiest way back from downtown on the 54/55 for me has been to go to the stop north of the pike and third stop. not as many people are at the stop and you have a much easier chance of actually getting on it and a seat. Good luck!

  • Terry December 24, 2008 (3:11 pm)

    It’s very slushy and messy around Alki Ave and 61st with deep tire ruts and trapped water which may freeze again if it gets cold enough. Be careful if you have to board or get off a bus there.

  • Longfellar December 24, 2008 (3:26 pm)

    Snake Hill on SW 30th ave at SW Brandon is a slushy mess. I barely made it down and had to turn back because there is a semi stuck on Brandon between 30th and 29th. Barely made it back up to SW Findlay (broke chains)

  • Jo December 24, 2008 (3:32 pm)

    My friend and neighbor, Alkibon, just drove me up to Admiral Safeway. Good friend, indeed.
    It’s a mess on 61st on alki, and in Safeway parking lot, but Admiral was pretty much okay.
    Safeway is open until 6:00pm today and
    9-2 Christmas Day.
    I’m happy, I got fried chicken, jo-jos and onion rings.
    Oh, and some good healthy fruit salad, also.
    Happy holidays everyone in WSB-land.
    Jo Ofsthus

  • MrJT December 24, 2008 (3:34 pm)

    Based on the summary of the Mayor’s press conference Robert Mak is earning his keep, teaching him how to evade the real issues. Glad to hear somone is doing something effectively at the city.

  • JayDee December 24, 2008 (3:35 pm)

    I will be so looking forward to wearing shoes again, though my REI waterproofed hiking boots have been a godsend; my feet have remained dry through snow and slush.

    I have so far only fallen once on the ice at 4th and Pine. And my most critical gutters have been cleared.

    A Happy Wassail to All WSBers.

  • Deb December 24, 2008 (3:36 pm)

    Does anyone know if all Safeways are open tomorrow? I have not been to the grocery store in over 3 weeks and things are getting low…I live in Fauntleroy at 45th and Wildwood…thanks…

  • Rhonda December 24, 2008 (3:41 pm)

    Just got back from a round trip to Beach from Burien. On the way I took Delridge (which was fine) to Spokane to Harbor/Alki to 63rd to Beach. Harbor/Alki had lots of ruts and it was slow going. On the way back I took Admiral to Delridge and it was a much better commute and took less time too. Watch out for the crazies though. There are still slushy areas that can cause fish tailing. The 17th Cutoff in White Center to 16th was the worst.

  • oscardougal December 24, 2008 (3:46 pm)

    People need to remember to drive carefully and considerately I just got completely covered in slush on my way back from the mail box by some guy hotdogging it in a big pick up truck, going way to fast. He managed to careen off the road just past my house, serves him right!

  • Deb December 24, 2008 (3:52 pm)

    I agree with ocscardougal…the streets are a mess and people going way to fast and spashing filthy slush and water everywhere…the street “cirle” at 45th and Director looks like a lake…ought to be real fun if it freezes tonight…folks, drive more carefully, please!

  • Deb December 24, 2008 (3:54 pm)

    oops! Should check my spelling better…sorry… ;o)

  • miws December 24, 2008 (3:57 pm)

    TR, Your Morgan Junction pic, in the 11:51 update, was taken as you were passing my building!

    .

    MIke

  • wsguy December 24, 2008 (4:06 pm)

    Just got back from picking my wife up from work in Bellevue.

    Dropped a co-worker off on Admiral & Cal.

    Took longer to go from California & Admiral to California & Erskine than it did from Bellevue to WS.

    THAT Mayor Greg is NOT a “B”.

    Poor planning, poor strategy, poor execution and non-existent intra -agency coordination. Absolutely no ability to adapt to circumstances.

    Mayor Nickels is right. There is room for improvement. And it starts with a new Mayor who isn’t clueless.

  • alkigirl December 24, 2008 (4:09 pm)

    Just got home – drove from 62nd and Admiral to Bartell’s and then to PCC and back. A thought for anyone driving back down Admiral Hill towards 63rd – if you have an extra seat or two, check to see if anyone is standing at the bus stop right at the Chevron station. It was easy for me to pull in, offer a ride, and for the two folks to get in safely. As it turned out, they lived all the way down where I do. THANKS for info on checking downspouts and gutters – I did, chipped ice away. I would NOT have thought about that w/o your postings. Also a huge big SHOUT OUT for all the many employees who are making it in to work at the stores and services in West Seattle. You are appreciated very much!

  • MrJT December 24, 2008 (4:32 pm)

    Has anyone else noticed that on the homepage of each of the city’s departments, they have the “mayors priorities” and number 1 is “Get Seattle Moving” Bet thats gone as soon as a web designer can get to the office.

  • DM December 24, 2008 (4:42 pm)

    This afternoon we decided to walk to Westwood Village from 16th and Holden (we suspected it would be faster than waiting for a bus to the Alaska Junction). From the looks of the photo you posted of the traffic on California, I think we made the right decision. And, my thighs feel fan-TAS-tic!

    The snow is indeed melting, but I don’t know that the road conditions are all that much better. Deep slippery slush. And, there’s a lot more cars on the road. My new “least favorite thing”: slushy rooster tails through the puddles. Ick!

    Have a lovely and dry Christmas Eve everyone!

  • Larry December 24, 2008 (4:47 pm)

    UPS just made a delivery.
    over be the west seattle bowl.

  • j. December 24, 2008 (4:52 pm)

    anyone know what is open for dinner tonight?

  • JenV December 24, 2008 (5:04 pm)

    puerto vallarta is open til 10 pm for dinner. Skylark is also open.

  • j. December 24, 2008 (5:06 pm)

    thanks, jen! we were thinking jaks or circa. perhaps i should call.

  • toddinwestwood December 24, 2008 (5:15 pm)

    Happy Festivus everyone.

  • kathy December 24, 2008 (5:19 pm)

    jaks is closed today and tomorrow. We tried it for lunch.

  • JH December 24, 2008 (5:19 pm)

    I’m leaving to drive someone to the airport in 15 minutes. Anyone else need a FREE ride to the airport also? Sorry for the short notice, but I’m willing to drive others if they’re in the Admiral area! I will check back in 15!

  • Sue December 24, 2008 (5:27 pm)

    Is there a list anywhere yet on what’s open in WS on Christmas? Food/drink/whatever.

  • datamuse December 24, 2008 (5:37 pm)

    We just got a UPS delivery for the first time all week, he parked at the bottom of the hill and RAN up our alleyway. He was gone again before I could thank him.
    .
    I went and picked up my FedEx package myself today, judging by the line (it took about an hour, I brought a book) a lot of other folks had the same idea.
    .
    The Westwood Village parking lot is a MESS. Felt like off-roading for the most part, lots of smaller cars getting stuck. Don’t think it’s been plowed since the snowpocalypse began.
    .
    What an exciting week this has been!

  • JH December 24, 2008 (5:42 pm)

    Okay, I’m leaving for the airport. Sorry I couldn’t help anyone out! BTW, all the presents I ordered online with expedited delivery are not here. :-(

  • teresap December 24, 2008 (5:43 pm)

    Just a note to say the following:

    I am glad the snow is melting.
    Thank you WSB, we all appreciate you and your work.
    Let us all remember…there are people here and especially the mid west that got layoff notices this week, some after 25 years of service and they have no jobs on Christmas Eve. Aren’t we all a little lucky that all we have to complain about is some nasty *ss snow and ice??

    West Seattle is the best place to live in Seattle, I love this place!!!!!!!!

    Merry Christmas!

  • peggan December 24, 2008 (5:49 pm)

    I saw a UPS guy & truck go down 48th from Genesee several hours ago; I’m on the corner, so I was excited!! I feel quite sad now, though, that I haven’t seen him since. I was really hoping at least one of my sweetheart’s two main gifts would get here, since I know it’s been in town since the 19th.

    Perhaps I will not give up hope yet.

  • BG39 December 24, 2008 (6:11 pm)

    I haven’t received mail today, and a UPS package that had a delivery date of yesterday got changed to a delivery date of today and still nothing.

  • Darren December 24, 2008 (6:11 pm)

    Just got back from Southcenter Mall. It was good roads most of the way. Once we got out of our street it was fine. When we got home we saw a grader clearing 35th finally SW 106th to Roxbury.

  • MargL December 24, 2008 (7:06 pm)

    Ah, so the grader was the big rumble I heard going down 35th towards 106th! Just missed taking a picture of it – took the 2-year-old out for a stomp-fest in the slush.

  • WSB December 24, 2008 (7:28 pm)

    Good evening….just a note to say that though we haven’t updated the main story for a few hours we are still continuing to monitor what’s up out there and will keep this post open through the evening. Dicey driving out there by most accounts – TR

  • angelescrest December 24, 2008 (7:42 pm)

    JH.
    That was a really sweet offer–how kind! Could use it tomorrow, but we’re gearing up. How was your drive to and fro, and which way did you go?
    Thanks!

  • GatewoodNeighbor December 24, 2008 (7:43 pm)

    re: mail – my mail carrier told me USPS told him to be back at the “shop” by 4:30, whether the mail was delivered or not. He wasn’t too happy, well, except for the cookies I gave him. FYI

  • Diane December 24, 2008 (7:50 pm)

    I’ve been receiving mail, til today; waiting for a paycheck that was mailed Monday from Wallingford; I saw a mail truck driving by late afternoon, but not parked, so now wondering if that truck took my paycheck back to the post office til Fri; grrr

  • BG39 December 24, 2008 (7:56 pm)

    I have received mail about every other day. They have to be back by 430? so if things didn’t get delivered today then they won’t be delivered until Saturday…since Friday is a holiday.

  • d. December 24, 2008 (7:58 pm)

    Does anyone know if the Jefferson Square Safeway is open tomorrow??? I missed my window today, didn’t know they were closing at 7…At least Holy Rosary is offering their midnight (11pm) mass…

  • SD December 24, 2008 (8:19 pm)

    BG39, I don’t think Friday is a postal holiday–it’s not listed as such on the US Postal Service website, at least.

  • GenHillOne December 24, 2008 (8:21 pm)

    peggan – I’m not too far from you and also have a package that’s been in Seattle since the 19th…throw yourself in front of that van if you see him again and I’ll do the same ;)

  • ouchy December 24, 2008 (8:27 pm)

    Westwood has not been plowed at ALL. I slipped and twisted my knee yesterday. Hence the name.

    UPS put my 2 boxes out for delivery yesterday but they never got them to me. One never left the warehouse today (so much for 2 day shipping…) and the other is still “Out for Delivery”. Urg. :(

  • miws December 24, 2008 (8:29 pm)

    Yay! Around 4 hours past sunset, and it’s still a few degrees above freezing!

    .

    Mike

  • JH December 24, 2008 (8:38 pm)

    Thanks Angel! Though I wasn’t really thinking-giving someone 15 minutes notice! I took I-5 to the airport exit. The roads were fine (I-5 and the road to the airport are clear), and the airport was not crowded at all for drop-off. Of course the side roads around my house are horrible! Even with 4WD I almost got stuck. It’s like a carnival ride!

    What are we going to do when the snow melts? I mean, where do we all meet up again??!!! Since being snowbound, I have been on this blog so much. Thank you WSB! I’ll miss the weather blog!

  • BG39 December 24, 2008 (9:10 pm)

    ouchy, yeah, my UPS package said that it arrived in Seattle and the “helpful” lady on the phone said it was on its way to me, I asked how long were they delivering tonight since I called about 8 and she said that there wouldn’t be anymore deliveries tonight. Um, okay, then how can it be on its way to me if you aren’t delivering tonight, or tomorrow, then she said it was going to be delivered Monday.
    SD, I certainly hope it’s not a postal holiday, but I know it’s a federal holiday, at least this year.

  • ouchy December 24, 2008 (9:13 pm)

    BG39

    I just checked one more time and it still says Out for Delivery but not rescheduled for Friday. Poo. At least the post office got everything everywhere (including Belgium!).

  • Johnston December 24, 2008 (9:18 pm)

    Well, it seems like things are steadily melting. Hoping to get my car out of the driveway tomorrow to go see my family…crossing fingers… Thanks so much to WSB and all of you for contributing to the comments these last few days so we could all try to stay sane. Have a wonderful holiday, West Seattle!

    ~Johnston (and Bella Luna)

  • BG39 December 24, 2008 (9:19 pm)

    ouchy, I also just checked mine and it says the same thing except for one major difference, before it had a delivery date, and now it has no delivery date. I just checked my back porch and front porch and no package. Who knows if I will ever get that package. :(

  • JH December 24, 2008 (9:20 pm)

    BG39-yes, it’s a federal holiday (one given by the President) on Friday, but I don’t know if the postal service gets the day. They’re kind of quasi-federal or something like that! Hey, at least I get the day off…

  • BG39 December 24, 2008 (9:42 pm)

    JH, thanks for letting me know, I looked at their website and indeed it looks like they will be back to delivering on Friday. I went from a state job to a federal job so my sense of whos off when still throws me a little.

  • cjboffoli December 24, 2008 (9:43 pm)

    Managed to get out of WS today for the first time in more than a week. Driving a front-wheel drive VW with no snow tires or chains but it does have traction control and ABS which helped.
    .
    I-5 to Edmonds was wet but fine. Lots of lost tire chains in the road. Edmonds was icy and a lot of hills are still closed. But the ice is rutty so it is easier to stop. Ferries to the Kitsap Peninsula were almost empty. Main roads around Poulsbo and environs were wet. Parking lots and side streets were a slushy mess.
    .
    Big improvements on Alaska and Fauntleroy when we returned. The worst part of the trip was getting in and out of my alley between 40th and 41st. Deep slush and lots of melt water. Also, big mounds of snow in the center of the road made crossing some intersections tricky. In all the rain and warm temps are helping tremendously. We’re not out of the woods yet. Please still exercise caution.

  • GeneseeHillMike December 24, 2008 (9:49 pm)

    Thanks WSB for running a great board. I get more up-to-date and in-depth info from you and all of the participants than any other news source in the city. Your journalism background really shows.

    Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

  • JH December 24, 2008 (10:13 pm)

    BG-you made a good move with your job! Hope you got some snow days like I did! :-)

  • peggan December 24, 2008 (10:32 pm)

    GenHillOne — I woulda, too! :) Now the UPS site says mine’ll come on 12/26. Ah well, at least my sweetheart is not too sentimental! Merry Christmas, all!

  • angelescrest December 24, 2008 (11:38 pm)

    Thanks, JH. I’ll keep my eyes on the weather tonight and in the morn, but it sounds like the worst hassle will be leaving WS.
    Happy Holidays!

  • que December 25, 2008 (12:01 am)

    Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwaanza, Happy Saturnalia, Merry Festivus, Happy Couple Days after Solstice to everyone out there in WSB land.

    We have all WEATHERED the Season together. All this snow has been made much better by the community that we have here in the blogosphere.

    Blessings to all.

  • WSB December 25, 2008 (12:24 am)

    To JH’s question about “where do we all meet up again” – the WSB Forums (click the forum tab on any page – all those tabs under the sunset header go to different sections of WSB) are open 24/7 and have been in business for a year (the site itself is three years old) – you are welcome to start discussions there, post questions, join in a conversation somebody else started, whatever (and we also have a couple of “classified” type sections there – Freebies/Deals/Sales and West Seattle Jobs Offered) – and of course we will continue covering West Seattle news 24/7 here on the main page too. (Prior to these weather/road/etc. chats during Snowmare ’08, we’ve had similar “as it happens” discussions during such things as extensive law-enforcement helicopter flyovers (this late-night sighting drew more than 100 comments):
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/?p=11447
    Just as was the case during these snowy, difficult days (and nights), WSB works best when we get word from people all over West Seattle about what they are seeing and hearing. Not just “bad” news – but also “hey, a sign went up in the window of the empty storefront near me, looks like a new restaurant’s moving in” – we take tips like that and turn them into stories by tracking down info on who’s involved and talking with them – then you get to be the first to tell your friends and neighbors, hey, guess what, a new pizza joint is moving in (or whatever). Here are the many ways to reach us 24/7:
    https://westseattleblog.com/blog/?page_id=2
    Anyway, thanks again to all, and we really do keep this site running 24/7 – you’ll never come here and NOT find something new – Merry Christmas Day! TR

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