Plan Ahead For Snow, Experts Warn As Wintry Weather Approaches

WASHINGTON — Cold winds are blowing in from Canada and have set the stage for snow later this week.

Midday Monday, the Puget Sound already saw some light snowfall up north, and the potential for snow will only grow as the week marches on.

The greatest chance for snowfall will be Thursday and Friday, according to the National Weather Service. Before that snow comes, everyone should double-check and make sure they've prepared for a worst-case scenario.

The Washington Department of Emergency Management says now is as good a time as any to take stock of your pantry. They suggest having two weeks of supplies on hand at all times, just in case a disaster happens. Those supplies should include an emergency kit, food and water, phone chargers, flashlights, and spare batteries.

To be clear, a worst-case scenario is not what NWS is predicting: while the cold weather and saturated air give the Puget Sound a good shot at seeing some snow, there's no disaster-movie event in our forecast.

What's much more likely — and still dangerous — is snow and ice on the roadways. As they prepare for some potentially slippery streets, the Washington State Department of Transportation is asking everyone to remember some key winter driving tips, like:

• Slow down and driving for the conditions.
• Leave more space between your car and other vehicles.
• Give extra space for snowplows
• Check to see if you have traction tires and chains.
• Know where chains are required and how to install them.

They also recommend packing an emergency car kit with water and snacks, an ice scraper, jumper cable, flares and warm clothes.

As for the forecast itself, well it's still pretty up in the air. The temperatures will be cold enough for snow to be possible, that's for sure, but the amount of snow we actually see will just depend on how saturated the air is.

In other words: keep an eye out, and be prepared just in case.