The City of Seattle is tracking this week’s cold weather system and prepared to activate additional services as needed. This blog post will be updated with the latest information on places for people to get indoors and out of the cold, keeping critical infrastructure open, changes to City services, and tips to stay warm and safe.  

Last update: December 22 at 3:00 pm Flow Meters And Controllers

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect from 4:00 PM Thursday through 7:00 PM Friday.

Conditions overnight Thursday will include low temperatures well below freezing, potential wind chills in the single digits, snow, and freezing rain. These conditions are dangerous. Emergency warming spaces are available for people without shelter and their pets. All residents should keep pets indoors during extreme cold.

Public-facing city facilities like libraries and community centers can serve as a space to stay warm but their hours may be impacted during cold weather events.  

City staff are ready to work 24/7 to keep critical infrastructure like roads, drains, and power lines operating during a winter weather event. But we also rely on residents to help clear sidewalks and drains as we all look out for our neighbors. 

Sidewalks and Storm Drains 

Winter weather events may cause delays in City services or temporary closures / reduction of hours at City facilities. Sign up for AlertSeattle to get notified of service impacts and check facility websites for the latest information. 

Winter storms bring snow, ice, and cold temperatures. These conditions can make traveling and spending time outdoors difficult and even dangerous. Get indoors, dress in layers, and take extra caution to stay safe while staying warm during a cold weather event. 

The best time to start preparing your home for winter weather is before an event occurs. Understanding how to protect your home from the dangers of frozen pipes and heating fires is key, as is having a plan for any family medical needs and furry friends ahead of an emergency.  

If you know of someone who is unable to understand, see, or hear this message, please tell them about it.

You can also call the Customer Service Bureau for help understanding this page: 206-684-CITY (2489) and TTY 7-1-1.

Curry Mayer, Director Address: 105 5th Ave S, Suite 300, Seattle, WA, 98104 Mailing Address: PO Box 34986, Seattle, WA, 98124-4986 Phone: (206) 233-5076 Fax: (206) 684-5998 Email: OEM@Seattle.gov

The Seattle Office of Emergency Management partners with the community to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

Safety Shut Off Valve During an emergency go to www.seattle.gov for the latest information EMERGENCY: Dial 911 | Non-Emergency Police: 206-625-5011 | Non-Emergency Fire: 206-386-1400