SNOHOMISH, Wash. — As winter weather continues, so does round-the-clock work to prep and clear roads in Snohomish County.
“They start early in the morning,” said Doug McCormick, Deputy Director of Public Works and County Engineer for Snohomish County. “When we have these showers later in the evening, sometimes they’re working also later in the evening too.”
Crews have been busy this week dropping de-icer on roads.
“We used about 12,000 gallons ahead of last weekend,” McCormick said.
They’ve also used a sand/salt mix to clear problem spots.
While several roads had improved Tuesday afternoon as temperatures rose, several problem spots remained, especially along residential streets.
“Especially with the sun glaring on the street right now, it can get dangerous,” said Marysville resident Vincent Palomar.
Washington State Patrol (WSP) continues to urge drivers to slow down and leave earlier than necessary to allow for extra time on commutes.
“Just because the posted speed limit might be 60, it doesn’t mean that 60 miles per hour is going to be the safest to go in areas where we’re seeing ice and snow,” said WSP Trooper Kelsey Harding.
Speed can be a big factor in spinouts. WSP has seen a lot of single-car spinouts up north in Whatcom County this week, according to Harding.
“Give yourself that extra 15 to 20 minutes just to get there safely,” she said.
WSP reported 20 collisions in Whatcom County Sunday, a number far higher than typical. The county saw anywhere from one to six crashes on other Sundays in January, according to Harding.
Wherever you drive this week, be prepared for problem spots. Have supplies on hand, including chains, if necessary.
Always defrost your front and rear windows before starting your drive, and clear any accumulation that is blocking your view.