Snohomish County Activates Emergency Coordination Center

EVERETT, Wash., February 8, 2019 - Snohomish County’s Department of Emergency Management (DEM) has activated its Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) as a strong winter storm spreads across the county.

The National Weather Service (NWS) expects 4-6 inches of snow to fall this evening in Snohomish County, with the heaviest accumulations expected between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. 

Temperatures are forecast to drop into the 20’s tonight. That means icy conditions are expected through the morning. 

NWS is still forecasting increasing winds, gusting to 30 mph. That may mean drivers will encounter blowing and drifting snow, especially in areas west of I-5 and along the U.S. 2 corridor. 

Numerous spinouts and fender benders have been reported this evening as the snow has piled up on side streets. Law enforcement reports that some of those crashes have ended with the drivers exchanging blows instead of insurance information. 

“Drivers are encouraged to stay off the roads, but if they have no choice, it helps to extend others some space and kindness,” said DEM Director Jason Biermann. 

Due to hazardous road conditions, the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office is prioritizing calls based on the seriousness of each incident (injuries, immediate threat to life or public safety).   

“If you are involved in a non-injury collision, please do not call 911,” said Sheriff’s Office Director of Communications Shari Ireton. “Please exchange information at the scene, call a tow truck and file a collision report online.”   

Personnel working in the ECC, representing public works and roads, law enforcement, fire and EMS, and health and human services, will continue to monitor the storm and coordinate the response to its impact on Snohomish County communities through the night.  

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