Whatcom County residents awoke to heavy snowfall, with reports of 8–12 inches of snow accumulation around areas of the county and heavy snow continuing.
On Monday, the National Weather Service Seattle Division issued a winter storm watch that began Monday evening and will end tonight. NWS Seattle forecasted a maximum of 6 inches of snow for the county, which was well exceeded in areas, according to a Tuesday tweet.
The City of Bellingham urged residents to limit travel so crews can clear the necessary roads for emergency responders. The Lummi Island Ferry will run a modified schedule today due to the severe weather.
Washington State Department of Transportation North said its snowplows are working 24/7 to clear roadways and asked drivers to use good etiquette when passing the vehicles, which travel at around 35 miles per hour. Road closures and restrictions are updated on the county’s website.
All branches of the Bellingham Public Library, Arne Hanna Aquatic Center, and Whatcom County Public Health offices are closed today. Many city staff will be working from home today, but online billing and permit services will still be available.
Civic Field and winter day camp at Bloedel Donovan Park are also closed, but will be reassessed Tuesday afternoon, a city news release stated.
Bellingham parks staff will clear parking lots and bathroom access, starting with the busiest locations first, like Little Squalicum Park. The park will be open for sledding. Other parks may experience a delay in opening or remain closed.
Road2Home activated the Bellingham Severe Weather Day Use Warming Center inside the Bellingham Central Library Lecture Room at 9:30 a.m., and it will remain open until 5:30 p.m.
Two overnight severe weather shelters will be open through Thursday, according to the county. Bellingham overnight shelter, located at the Civic Field locker rooms at 1355 Civic Field Way, will open from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m., and Ferndale overnight shelter, located at 5694 2nd Ave. in Ferndale, will open from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m.
This story will be updated throughout the day with photos taken by staff and readers, and additional information. See below.
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