Each year in November, Tukwila begins its preparation for winter operations, ensuring our readiness to deal with storms. The City has a Snow and Ice Plan for maintaining a total of 217 lane miles with the resources allocated.  At times this is challenging, due to the timing and onset of the stormy weather and available personnel and equipment.  The Snow and Ice Priority Routes map shows the priority levels of which streets in the city will be cleared first when dealing with snow or ice. When these roads are cleared, we then proceed to general residential areas.

The City of Tukwila also employs an extensive preventive treatment of liquid deicer.  Applied to streets between 15-36° on dry, moist or light snow, it keeps precipitation from sticking to the pavement.  The deicer also prevents future icing, and is especially beneficial if a significant storm rolls in.

Remember, before a winter storm hits, take three simple steps:

It's not a question of 'if' but 'when' the next storm hits... will you and your loved ones be ready? And what do you need to do to be better prepared at home, work, school and on the road? Our winter weather preparations can help us be more prepared for an unforeseeable natural disaster, like a catastrophic earthquake. Now is the time to make ourselves ready!

• Build a kit. Create an emergency preparedness kit with at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water for your home and office. Also advised are go-kits prepared for vehicle road travel and winter weather evacuation. Find great checklists at: TakeWinterByStorm.org/checklists/

• Make a plan. Practice the plan with your family and those who depend on you.

• Stay informed. Know about the approaching winter weather, so you can be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws our way. Anticipating weather hazards and knowing where to find preparation resources are vital to protecting your property and those you love.