Date:  Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Contact: Mike Westbay 509.728.4712, Meagan McFadden 509.654.0697 (Yakima), or Travis Phelps 206.440.4472 (Seattle)

SNOQUALMIE PASS – It may feel like springtime in the valleys of Washington, but winter-like driving conditions continue to make driving across I-90 Snoqualmie Pass a challenge.

Monday night six inches of snow fell on Snoqualmie Pass. Traction tires were required on passenger vehicles, chains were required on vehicles over 10,000 gross vehicle weight rating and oversize loads were prohibited. Trucks slowing to pull into the I-90 westbound chain up area at Gold Creek, four miles east of the summit, caused about a two mile back up for about 45 minutes Monday night.

The snow level is expected to be right at or just below the road level on Snoqualmie Pass for the next five days. Weather experts forecast a possible “arctic outbreak” at the end of the week, with the potential for heavy snowfall in the mountains. Snoqualmie Pass Maintenance Superintendent Al Minerich says, “We are still on winter shift and ready to respond”.

WSDOT asks drivers to check pass conditions before you travel. Winter is not over in the mountains. Drivers should allow more time to get to their destinations and be prepared for winter driving conditions.

To find out the latest information about mountain pass conditions before you go, call 511 or visit our website: wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes/

While on the road, tune your radio to AM 1610 or AM 530.

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Drivers can now get current traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that managed 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.

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