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Though most winter storms in Central Puget Sound are relatively mild and short duration compared with other parts of the United States, they can cause power outages, unsafe driving conditions, school and business closures, property damage, and safety concerns. Given the right conditions, snowstorms also can be associated with other natural hazards, such as flooding and landslides.
Reduce winter's impact on you and your family by preparing in advance. Check RPIN's Be Prepared for Winter Storms section to learn more information about how you can be ready for inclement winter weather. Also, be sure to check for up-to-the-minute live feeds of weather advisories and warnings from the National Weather Service, posted on RPIN's home page.
The American Red Cross explains what you should do if storm watches and warnings are issued.
During and After a Winter Storm
- Report power outages by phone to your electricity provider.
- Puget Sound Energy - Call 1-888-225-5773 (toll-free).
- Seattle City Light - Call 206-684-3000 to report outages. Call 206-684-7400 for the Outage Hotline (recorded message).
- Snohomish County PUD – Call 425-783-1000 to report a power outage. To get updates about general locations of power outages, call 425-783-1000 and press "#1."
- Tacoma Power – Call 253-502-8602.
- Stay away from and do not handle any downed power lines. They may be live. Coming into contact with them can be fatal.
- Use alternative heat sources and back-up generators safely and wisely. Follow manufacturers' instructions. Adequately vent fueled space heaters (e.g., kerosene, propane, alcohol) to avoid fatal carbon monoxide gas buildup. If used incorrectly, generators pose a significant hazard to both the user and crews attempting to restore power. Never plug them in to feed power to your home circuitry. Instead, plug appliances and fixtures directly into the outlets of the generator. Be sure to use generators in a well-ventilated area.
- If you cook with outdoor grills or campstoves, use them outdoors. Using them indoors without proper ventilation may cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Natural-gas stoves and ovens will work properly even when the power is out. (Use a match to manually light cooktop burners.
- Use battery-powered flashlights for illumination. Avoid candles, oil lamps or anything with an open flame.
- Stay off the roads if possible. Delay trips until the roads are clear.
- If you drive, allow extra time and keep your headlights on. Make sure your car has an emergency kit for cold weather. Follow tips for safe winter driving.
- Enjoy the snow, but dress warmly. Make sure children and older adults do not stay exposed to unusually low temperatures for long periods.
Other Helpful Resources
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