Traveling for the holidays? New rules to follow

Governor Inslee issued a travel advisory on Nov. 13, advising a 14-day quarantine for travelers moving through the state. The order also encourages Washingtonians to stay close to home and avoid travel altogether if possible, and limit interactions to immediate households.

On Nov. 15, Inslee asked all Washingtonians to avoid gathering together indoors and eating indoors until at least Dec. 14. That call came just days after the governor asked residents to rethink their holiday plans.

That all said, some travel is essential. If you’re venturing out, be aware that conditions might have changed since the last time you traveled.

Gov. Inslee asks Washingtonians to ‘rethink’ holiday celebrations

By land

If you’re headed over the river and through the woods for Thanksgiving, you’re in luck. The mountain passes are expected to be relatively clear of snow, and traffic volumes have decreased through metro areas since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Forecasters say Thursday will be cloudy while Friday could see some sun breaks. Showers could briefly return on Friday evening.

If you’re headed over the mountain passes, as always, the Washington State Department of Transportation urges drivers to be prepared. Make sure you have the right tires, good tread depth, and extra water, food, and blankets in case you get stuck in a closure. Also, be patient with snow plows.

Snow levels are expected to drop Wednesday down to about 2,500 in the mountain passes. The National Weather Services has issued a Winter Weather Advisory in effect for Tuesday night into Wednesday for six inches or more of snow at the passes.

Tips on winter driving from WSDOT and Washington State Patrol

If you’re nervous about germs, have a plan for cleanliness. For example, will you use a rest stop or stop at a fast food restaurant to use the bathroom? Pack hand sanitizer and masks for everyone in the car.

By sea

Taking a ferry this week? Washington State Ferries says face masks are required at all WSF facilities, indoor and outdoor spaces.

While not required, WSF is encouraging passengers to purchase their tickets in advance online to help slow the spread of COVID-19. While ridership remains at historic lows, some routes require reservations: Anacortes/San Juan Islands, Friday Harbor/Sidney, British Columbia, and Port Townsend/Coupeville.

WSF says there’s been a coin shortage at the terminals, so it’s a good idea to use a debit or credit card, or use exact change when purchasing tickets.

Here are more ways Washington State Ferries is trying to stop the spread of COVID-19 at its facilities.

If you’ve never taken the ferry — walk-on or driving — check this first-time rider guide before you plan your trip.

By air

If you’re flying this week, Sea-Tac Airport says it is asking travelers to be prepared to comply with travel measures at the airport, and to stay home if you’re sick. Expect to wear a facial covering for the entire journey. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently and honor physical distancing.

If you need a COVID-19 test before traveling, Sea-Tac Airport is offering tests to ticketed travelers through Discovery Health MD. Find more information here for the COVID-19 testing pilot program and COVID-19 testing options.

Check here for the latest ways Sea-Tac Airport is responding to COVID-19.

You can check your flight status here.

Follow @http://twitter.com/Mynorthwest