Snow in the Forecast through Monday

There is a chance of snow at elevations of up to 800 feet today through Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

However, snow accumulation is expected to be one inch or less in the lowlands, the weather service reported.

Precipitation beginning later this morning will be in the form of showers with at least a chance of snow showers remaining in the forecast through Monday, the National Weather Service said in a special weather statement. With the shower activity snow accumulations will be hit and miss for the next couple of days.

Snow is most likely on Sunday afternoon through Monday, the weather service reported, with a 50 percent chance of snow. There may also be wet weather after Monday, but the weather service says that it's too early to say if it will come down as rain or snow.

Low temperatures through Tuesday are expected to be around 30 degrees, which is below freezing, the weather service stated. Highs are expected in the mid to upper 30s.

Be prepared

The city of Bellevue advises residents to be prepared in case of snow and ice conditions.

Response trucks with snow plows and deicer have been prepared, according ot the city. Crews will be working throughout the weekend as conditions warrant, paying close attention to the Monday and Tuesday commutes, city officials said in a statement.

King County also issued the following advice on getting prepared for snow:

Family

• Listen to weather forecasts regularly and heed any warnings.
• Make sure everyone knows when and how to call 9-1-1.
• Make sure you understand the emergency plans and expectations at your child's school and your work.
• Check your emergency supplies and restock outdated items. Be sure to include plenty of water and non-perishable food, first aid supplies, a battery-operated radio, flashlight and extra batteries for both. A checklist can be found atwww.TakeWinterByStorm.org.
• If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they have access to unfrozen water.
• Identify an out-of-state contact to call during a major disaster or emergency; it will be easier to call out of the area if local lines are tied up.
• Your ability to feel a change in temperature decreases with age, and older people are more susceptible to health problems caused by cold. If you are over 65 years old, place an easy-to-read thermometer in an indoor location where you will see it frequently, and check the temperature of your home often during the winter months.
• Monitor the weather forecast and adjust your travel plans if necessary. Know the snow routing for school buses and public transit.
• Check on neighbors, especially anyone who might need help.
• Subscribe to free regional alerts and news bulletins at www.rpin.org.

Home

• Be sure you have sufficient heating fuel for emergency equipment in case the electricity is cut off (such as a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove).
• Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector. Test the batteries each month, and replace them twice a year.
• Take steps to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use a generator indoors, in garages, or in carports. Never use a gas or charcoal grill, hibachi, or portable propane heater to cook indoors or heat your home. Avoid combustion "space heaters" unless there is an exhaust vent.
• Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls so your water supply will be less likely to freeze. To the extent possible, weatherproof your home by adding weather-stripping, insulation, insulated doors and storm windows, or thermal-pane windows.
• Learn how to shut off water valves in case a pipe bursts.
• Have your chimney or flue inspected each year.
• Learn more tips for preparing your home at www.TakeWinterByStorm.org.

Vehicle

• Make sure your vehicle is properly serviced and maintained. Ensure the electrical systems, brakes, batteries, lights, windshield wipers, antifreeze and heating and cooling systems are in good shape. Check fluid levels – antifreeze, windshield washer, and oil.
• Keep tires properly inflated and make sure they have adequate tread. Replace any worn tires.
• Build, or restock, a vehicle emergency kit, including flares, flashlight, extra batteries, ice scraper, tire chains, a blanket and warm clothing, sturdy shoes, first-aid supplies, water, and non-perishable food. You can find a detailed list atwww.TakeWinterByStorm.org.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full; the extra gas helps reduce condensation that can plug your fuel line with ice and stall your engine in cooler weather. It also helps you avoid running out of gas if you experience long traffic delays.
• When driving in snow, stick to major arterials. Register for road alerts atwww.kingcounty.gov/roadalert and transit alerts at www.kingcounty.gov/transit.

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