(SNOW LINKS: Metro buses on snow routes … traffic cams … map of what’s been plowed … plowing-priority map … OPEN BUSINESSES LISTED HERE … SATURDAY AM COVERAGE HERE … SATURDAY PM COVERAGE HERE)

(SW Thistle stairway, photographed by John Borba)

9:58 AM: Forecasters say up to two more inches of snow are possible today, so a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 10 pm. So it’s one more day to have fun – Jim Moore just sent this next photo from The Arroyos, saying his neighbor is “ready for the assault of the snowmen”:

The National Weather Service says Seattle’s official snow total for the past two days was 11.1 inches – (corrected) #15 in the all-time list (since recordkeeping began 130+ years ago) of two-day snow totals, and the highest such total in almost 50 years.

INFO LINKS
Metro – all buses remain on snow routes; no 125
SDOT snow-routes map
SDOT “live” map updating where plows have gone
King County’s “live” map (White Center included)
West Seattle traffic cams
Seattle Public Library curbside services closed today
Seattle Parks snow info
(added) Updates on other city services, including possibility of no solid-waste pickup tomorrow
TODAY’S LIST INCLUDING OPEN BUSINESSES (206-293-6302 or westseattleblog@gmail.com)

11:27 AM: That’s a traffic-cam view of the one major road SDOT is not plowing today – the 11-months-closed West Seattle Bridge. Meantime, the snow is picking up again, but expected to change to rain later today. Fred Hammerquist sent this video from Lincoln Park.

The West Seattle Golf Course is open again today for snow play – here’s a texted photo of snowboarders there:

12:36 PM: Also from the golf course, Liza and Lisa sent this photo:

“Ernie the Snow Walrus awaits his Valentine on a bench at the golf course,” they explained. By the way, if you’re headed there, Seattle Parks says that “entry is ONLY through pedestrian gates near the parking lots/pro shops.” … From west of The Junction, Janelle Bracken sent this photo, saying, “We didn’t see any snowmen yesterday so we made one for west seattle! Corner of 48th Ave SW and Alaska”:

1:48 PM: The temperature is above freezing and the snow is showing signs of melting, with clumps spontaneously sliding off cars, roofs, etc. But there’s still lots to work with – another snow-creation photo just in from Alki, at the “Birthplace of Seattle” monument:

Speaking of history, Jim Starkey noted that we had a photo from the 3200 block of California SW in Saturday’s coverage, and sent this photo from the same area during the 1968 snowstorm:

Jim says that photo was taken “looking out from the Cal D Apartments (gone now) onto California Avenue. Right across the street from the old Hi-Hat Chinese Restaurant.” An old newspaper ad shows the Hi-Hat was at 3221 California SW, where the Revel live-work townhouses are now.

2:16 PM: The city has sent its daily roundup of multi-departmental updates. If you’re wondering about trash/recycling pickup for tomorrow, here’s the Seattle Public Utilities update:

If there is still snow and/or ice on the ground Monday and conditions are determined to be unsafe for SPU contractors, the Utility will operate on a one-day delay for garbage, recycling and food/yard waste pickup this coming week. SPU will be sure to communicate just as soon as decisions are made.

SPU also notes that its transfer stations (nearest one is in South Park) are closing at 3 pm.

3:06 PM: Lots of photos received from Lincoln Park today – thank you! The photo above, from the shore path on the park’s north side, is from Bryan Lunak; below, “fans” awaiting baseball/softball season, photographed by Mike Munson:

Just in from Washington State Ferries: They’ll stay on the “severe weather schedule” through tomorrow. For Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth, that means the two-boat schedule minus boat #2.

3:45 PM: If you’re near Elliott Bay – Kersti Muul from Salish Wildlife Watch reports orcas have headed into the bay, toward the grain silos on the north end of the downtown waterfront.

Back on the forecast front, the NWS says a “wintry mix” is likely to prevail in the hours ahead, but expects it to be all rain by first thing tomorrow morning. Watch out for falling snow as the transition happens – check out the snow slab falling off Neal Chism’s metal roof in this clip:

4:36 PM: More great photos have just come in as people of all ages enjoy the snow before it goes. First, here’s Lucille on a “snow camel” built in the park by Delridge Community Center with her mom Laurie Garcia:

Marc Fendel sent this photo of a snowperson seated on a pickup bed:

Bradi Jones sent a snow bunny with a backstory:

She explains that it’s “inspired by the Neo-expressionist artist, Hunt Slonem, and his “Bunnies” collection! Husband Tim Jones works at Glass Eye Studio, a renowned glass blowing studio here in Seattle,” where they collaborated with Slonem recently “in creating his newest collection of ‘Bunnies’ … We thought we’d see how a ‘Snownem bunny’ might come out!” … Next, a snow “Moai” from Max Welliver in North Admiral:

From just above Lincoln Park, Andy sent this photo of a classic snowman:

And of course, there are snow forts. This photo’s from Jethro:

Jethro writes, “Sunrise Heights girl power. This is an unused dead-end alley east of 28th. They are ready for the obviously imminent attack from the neighborhood boys.”

5 PM: And here’s a snow castle:

That’s Lilli and Oliver Athan’s Snow Castle, to be specific, photo by Paulette Athan. It’s been an afternoon full of sledding, too – Eugene Lee sends these two photos:

That’s Ezra, a Denny sixth-grader; below, Silas, a Gatewood fifth-grader.

In the Alki area, Katy photographed the “neighborhood kids (who) built a tie-dye rocket ship”:

5:53 PM: Yma sent a photo of “our 6′ Snow Princess, ready for Valentine’s Day” in Gatewood:

And from Yazmin: “My twin girls really wanted a fort so daddy and mommy built it before the temperature warms up again. We also made ornaments with ice cubes.” You can see the fort in a comment below; here are the ornaments (and the twins):

8:01 PM: A few more fun photos that have come in – first, James Ritchie made a snow version of the famous Sen. Bernie Sanders Inauguration Day photo in Seaview (Bethany photographed it):

Michael Allen sent this pic of his “very large snowman” at the Seattle Chinese Garden on Puget Ridge:

Still ahead tonight, a look at tomorrow – we’re waiting to hear from the city about trash/recycling pickup for tomorrow (as mentioned above, they MIGHT delay everything one day this week), and will publish a separate update when that’s in. Also, we’re working on a photo gallery of “snowbirds.” Thanks yet again to everyone who’s sent photos/info all weekend – 206-293-6302 or westseattleblog@gmail.com is how to reach us for whatever’s making news, 24/7/365.

(SNOW LINKS: Metro buses on snow routes … traffic cams … map of what’s been plowed … plowing-priority map … BUSINESS LIST IN MORNING COVERAGE)

(Fauntleroy ferry dock, photographed by Michael Burke)

1:25 PM: The promised “tapering” of the snowfall is happening – much lighter, at least here in Upper Fauntleroy, as we move to pm coverage (here’s the morning report). As we continue, a reminder about driving safely – for many reasons, from treacherous conditions to people walking, sledding, skiing in the street:

(3200 block California SW, photographed by Christopher Boffoli)

We’ve also had a report of a Seattle Fire truck that got stuck, on Dawson east of California.

(Texted photo)

INFO LINKS
Metro – all buses remain on snow routes; no 125
SDOT snow-routes map
SDOT “live” map updating where plows have gone
King County’s “live” map (White Center included)
West Seattle traffic cams
Seattle Public Library curbside services closed today
Seattle Parks snow info
*Businesses’ open/closed announcements that we’ve received are still being updated in today’s first report

It’s a work day for many, regardless of snow – from Susanna Moore of Niederberger Contracting (WSB sponsor), a photo and “Shout out to our hard-working US Postal Service in North Admiral”:

And of course, the SDOT snowplow drivers:

(Photo tweeted by @jana_obscura)

As noted in the link list above, you can use this map to see where they’ve been. … More snow fun, too. This morning we featured videos of ducks and a dog playing in the snow – now, for equal time:

As for humans, many are out sledding and skiing. Tom and Finn did the latter at Lincoln Park:

Another view of Lincoln Park, from John Borba:

2:40 PM: Just announced: Tomorrow’s West Seattle Farmers’ Market is CANCELED. (If you had pre-ordered for pickup via the What’s Good ordering system, WSFM says, your order will be canceled and refunded.)

2:57 PM: First lost/found pet report of the day – remember, we have a year-round page featuring West Seattle lost/found pets – if you’re missing a dog near 35th/Avalon, maybe this one’s yours. … Adding this to the business list in our morning coverage – Admiral Theater is closed today/tonight.

(Near Longfellow Creek – photo by Rebekah LaSala)

3:28 PM: No media briefing today but the city has published a roundup of storm updates from its departments – see it here. One update of note: Seattle Public Utilities says transfer stations have closed for the day. … Another early closure: Whole Foods Market.

4:05 PM: Still lots of people out having fun in the show – above, another reader photo, featuring a wee one in an improvised ride in Arbor Heights. The afternoon forecast update is in – the Winter Storm Warning is now extended until 9 tonight. The forecast calls for a chance of another inch or so tomorrow, but otherwise, the big snow wallop is over.

5:04 PM: Lots of bird photos today – above, a tree full of robins in Seola Beach, photographed by Waikikigirl. We plan a “snowbird” gallery tonight or tomorrow. And just in from Brandon – Softy the snow sea lion:

5:34 PM: Holy Rosary has canceled in-person Mass for tonight and tomorrow but will have video on its Vimeo page. (Reminder, we update 20+ local churches’ online services weekly and include the link in our Sunday morning preview lists. Any local faith institutions who’d like to be in our calendar can email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com.) … Two scenes from Longfellow Creek, first via Twitter:

And via text:

6:15 PM: Late word of online entertainment tonight – the West Seattle High School drama program is presenting “Twilight Zone Radio Dramas” tonight at 7 pm – several link options for watching. Go here.

Speaking of art:

Jeff Jolly says his creation is titled “Patiently Waiting for Summer.” … And, texted from Glenn Way west of The Junction, a simpler statement in snow:

Also creative – rearranged holiday lights, shining a Valentine’s heart under the snow at this Genesee Hill-area home, photographed by Julia Chase:

Yet another round of thanks to everyone who has emailed, texted, tweeted photos since the snow began falling – westseattleblog@gmail.com or 206-293-6302 – any time!

(Alki this evening, photographed by James Tilley)

6:44 PM: The official snowfall total so far today at Sea-Tac Airport, according to the National Weather Service – 8.9 inches. That’s about what we measured here at HQ, and it’s an official record for this calendar date.

7:03 PM: Two road notes – Alice says the signal at 35th/Myrtle is out (no power outage on the map, so it seems to be an isolated problem); texter say.a bus is stuck at Fauntleroy/Alaska.

(SNOW LINKS: Metro buses on snow routes … traffic cams … map of what’s been plowed … plowing-priority map)

(Delridge at Henderson – texted photo)

7:18 AM: Good morning! After 12+ hours of snow, we have at least half a foot – unofficially. The National Weather Service says the snow will continue this morning before tapering off this afternoon. We’ll be covering the weather all day – let us know what it’s like in your part of West Seattle! 206-293-6302 text or voice, westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you.

(Route 128 on California SW – photo by David French)

INFO LINKS
Metro – all buses remain on snow routes; no 125
SDOT snow-routes map
SDOT “live” map updating where plows have gone
King County’s “live” map (White Center included)
West Seattle traffic cams
Seattle Public Library curbside services closed today
Seattle Parks snow info

8:10 AM: Texted from 48th/Hanford, a scene of sheer joy:

That’s Mavis playing in the snow. It’s not all play today – many of your local small businesses are open for those who can get there safely – walking to your nearest coffee shop, for example.

8:54 AM: Barbara G measured 7 inches of snow near The Junction (added: Mark in Admiral has 11″). Still steadily snowing, and breezy. No major problems reported – just challenging conditions for getting around, even with plows on patrol. And as for the non-arterials, forget it – this is SW Edmunds, photo sent by Sonja:

And if you have to travel on Delridge Way, the cones in the next photo – taken near SW Willow – are a reminder, be very careful because all the ongoing paving work and detours may be hard to see under/in the snow:

9:15 AM: Business notes:

*We Sweat Infrared Sauna (WSB sponsor) – update, CLOSED

*Arthur’s – Open, with indoor and outdoor (“for the adventurous,” says proprietor Rebecca, adding, “tons of heaters”) dining.

*Fresh Flours in South Delridge – open until 5 pm

*Mission Cantina (WSB sponsor) – open

*Bebop Waffle Shop – open

*Kid Friendly Footwear – open until 4 pm, lots of kids’ snow gear

*West Seattle Cellars – open today until 6 pm

*Whole Foods Market closed early

*Admiral Theater is closed today/tonight

*The Alley in The Junction is open (5 pm-11 pm)

*Thunder Road Guitars & The Bass Shop (WSB sponsors) are closed today. Still making music, though – TRG proprietor Frank sent this pic:

(Did you see them in Save The Stone Cottage‘s “Karaoke Rock Concert” last night? Watch for our followup.)

9:54 AM: Let’s talk parks! Above, that’s Schmitz Park, and below, Alki Beach, both photographed by Jay Gewin:

Seattle Parks says golf courses including West Seattle are “open for snow play” today, as are athletic fields. Other snow impacts are noted here.

10:39 AM: More pets, as the snow continues falling. Above, via text, Fidel the cat, “deciding to stay in.” (Update: Later, Fidel changed course and headed out after all.) Below – ducks!

Addy Nachtrieb sent that video, and the caption: “Ducks in snow to make your day! Indian Runner Ducks, Mala and Prima, see snow for the first time. You can see more videos of Mala and Prima at @MalaAndPrima on TikTok.” We have received a few bird photos, too, and will plan on a separate “snowbird” gallery as we’ve done in past storms. But for now – bird tracks, sent by Mike:

11:25 AM: How about a road check? The first photo is from Mark Jaroslaw;

Mark reports, ‘Just returned from along the Alki/Harbor/Avalon/Fauntleroy/California/Admiral loop. All roads are now either compacted or scraped and are passable at slow speeds. Markets, gas stations, coffee shops open.” Next, two photos from Beach Drive – first one is from Carol Ann:

Next one is from Creighton, who reports 10-year-old Carson was en route to “First nordic skiing lessons” at Me-Kwa-Mooks.

Need a snow shovel? The West Seattle Tool Library is open and still has some in stock. (Only $1 to rent!) The WSTL says drivers should use the south entrance at Delridge/Oregon today. … Also pertinent to the snow (and adding to the business list above), Kid Friendly Footwear in The Junction (WSB sponsor) has “plenty of waterproof gloves & mittens, cozy socks, jackets + all kinds of new & gently used boots for babies & kids! Open today until 4 pm, sorry, free local delivery temporarily suspended for a few days.”

Thanks for all the photos and info – we’ll be launching afternoon coverage in a bit. (Added – Find it here.)

(SNOW LINKS: Metro buses on snow routes … traffic cams … map of what’s been plowed … plowing-priority map)

(Fauntleroy Park photo by John Skerratt)

6:08 PM: As Thursday’s half-inch-or-so snowfall lingered throughout the day, city departments continued preparing for what’s to come. The mayor said that some forecasts, if borne out, could amount to a ‘snownami.” So let’s start with the forecast. Light snow is falling now. But the Winter Storm Warning isn’t in effect until 10 pm – the National Weather Service predicts up to eight inches of snow through tomorrow, and a chilly wind from the east. Whatever happens, city leaders say they’re ready:

Mayor Durkan led another media briefing this afternoon. SDOT says it’s had everyone on 12-hour shifts, pre-treating roads since Wednesday, and they’ve also been working on protected bike lanes, trails, pedestrian overpasses, and stairways. Their mechanics are on duty too so vehicle troubles won’t be a setback. Seattle City Light crews are ready. The city’s virtual Emergency Operations Center plans to activate at 8:30 am Saturday, according to new Emergency Management director Curry Mayer. The Human Services Department says three emergency shelters have been opened and none are maxed out yet. (None in West Seattle.) WSDOT plans to keep express lanes open. We asked SDOT director Sam Zimbabwe if low-bridge restrictions would be suspended so that people who absolutely had to cross the river in the snow wouldn’t have to drive a few miles extra. His answer: No. Metro and Sound Transit, meantime, remind you that they have to maintain reduced capacity, and masks are mandatory. One other note for getting around. The city promises to maintain access to COVID testing and vaccination sites as best it can – that includes the one in West Seattle (2801 SW Thistle, on a major plow route – see the citywide plow-routes map here, and the “live” map here). Here’s the full city multidepartmental roundup published after the briefing.

P.S. As always, we’ll start our coverage when the snow starts falling big time, and we’ll continue coverage all weekend. Photos, tips, info – text/voice 206-293-6302, or westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

7:35 PM: Still snowing. Our side street’s coated. Some snow visible in the traffic cams showing arterials, too:

See all the West Seattle traffic cams here.

8:50 PM: Metro is now running on snow routes. Also: South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) is closing its campus tomorrow – there would normally be a few Saturday classes.

9:15 PM: Traffic report via text: Drivers are already having trouble on the Edmunds hill at 40th. Note that’s NOT a major plow route (see last page of this guide) – use SW Alaska to get from Triangle to Junction. … Also via text, Sam warns that people are getting stuck on Sylvan Way, too. … Also, trouble on SW Genesee east of Avalon, and Bonair above Alki.

9:36 PM: Alki at sea level is plenty snowy too – thanks to David Hutchinson for the photo.

11:29 PM: More photos – first, from SeanO at 36th/Hanford:

And really, stay off the hills. Here’s a contributed photo showing Lincoln Park Way:

It’s windy as well as snowy, and down into the mid-20s.

SATURDAY MORNING NOTE: Our snowstorm coverage continues here.