Two significant winter storms are expected to affect Western Washington in the next few days. The National Weather Service is predicting the first storm to move into the area this afternoon and tonight. Snow is expected late this afternoon and tonight with 1 to 2 inches accumulation possible in portions of Bellingham and wind gusts as high as 24 mph.
The second storm will affect the area about midday Monday through Tuesday. It is expected that the second storm will be the more significant with accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible and wind gusts as high as 25 mph.
A winter weather advisory for snow means periods of snow will cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect snow covered roads and limited visibility, and use caution while driving. Drivers should expect and plan for icy roads and winter driving conditions at all locations.
Some tips for safe driving from the Bellingham Police Department:
- Before driving: Warm up your vehicle (but never leave it unattended), defrost windows completely, remove ice/snow from roof and hood, make sure all lights are visible.
- While driving (if you have to): Slow down, increase following distance because takes much longer to stop in snow and ice, accelerate and decelerate slowly and smoothly.
Shelters remain open
The Lighthouse Mission Ministries (LMM) reports they had a total of 181 people staying at the Lighthouse Mission and Fountain Community Church last night. This is up slightly from the night before when the total was 176. Total shelter capacity for last night was approximately 210. LMM and Fountain Community Church will continue to keep emergency shelters open tonight, and the City also continues to have a room in the central library available during the day for women staying in the night shelter at Fountain Community Church.
Shelter guests can check in through the LMM Drop-In Center. The center is open 24 hours per day and is located at 1013 W. Holly Street. Anyone seeking services at the shelter is welcome. The only exception is if the person has a history of violence at the Lighthouse Mission. For information on the Lighthouse Mission Ministries or to volunteer or donate, visit www.thelighthousemission.org/
For more information
To receive emergency alerts through the City and County’s AlertSense program, sign up here.
For more information on snow and ice removal on Bellingham streets, visit www.cob.org/services/transportation-planning/snow-and-ice-removal
For information on the City of Bellingham’s 2019 winter actions to address homelessness, visit https://cob.org/services/housing/homeless/2019-winter-actions
