Inslee, King County: Drivers should avoid roads until ice clears

Washington State Governor Jay Inslee met with King County and Seattle leaders Monday to discuss the state’s response to recent snowstorms that have affected transportation in Western Washington.

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Inslee, King County Executive Dow Constantine, and Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan delivered a join statement to the media, urging drivers to continue to do their best to stay off the roads.

This comes following information from Washington State Patrol, reporting that its responded to over 480 collisions over the last week.

I also want to thank the crews across WA for working long hours to keep the roads clear and the power on. Let’s make sure to give our police, fire, utility and transportation workers plenty of room to do their jobs. Give them space and keep everyone safe. #wawx

— Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) February 11, 2019

The joint effort among leaders aims to coordinate recovery efforts among regional partners.

Gov. Inslee declared a state of emergency during Friday’s snow system, helping to expand support for the delivery of select emergency supplies.

The declaration extended exemptions to commercial vehicle drivers collecting and delivering bulk dairy products and de-icing salt. That was later extended to drivers delivering “essential food,” emergency supplies to grocery stores, and bulk propane fuel.

Snow in the region is expected to taper off late Monday, eventually shifting into rain and warmer temperatures. In the meantime, authorities are warning drivers to continue exercising caution, especially as snow turns to slush.

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