Kirkland road crews are currently clearing slush from roadways on Friday and have worked in the Kingsgate/Evergreen Hill area, including near Evergreen Hospital, and on Lake Washington Boulevard, Market Street, NE 85th Street, and NE 124th Street.

Crews are also working to clear storm drain grates and ask that residents do the same.

A flood watch is in effect through Saturday afternoon for King County and other counties. A “flood watch” means conditions are favorable for flooding but flooding is not imminent or occurring.

To monitor weather conditions for Washington, visit www.weather.gov/seattle.

Icy Conditions Impact Trees

The heavy snow and ice takes their toll on trees; excessive weight can cause trees and branches to break.

Kirkland residents are reminded that:

· Permits are not required for emergency tree removals on private property. However, Kirkland residents are asked to please report trees removed due to severe weather conditions to the Planning Department at 425-587-3235 as soon as possible.

· Downed trees can take power lines down. Consider a downed power line as energized and dangerous. Maintain a safe distance from all downed wires and anything they are in contact with, including puddles of water and fences.

· For trees that sustained damage, visit the Washington State Department of Natural Resources website for information on “Proper Tree Care Can Minimize Hazards During Storms.”

Waste Management in operation Saturday

Waste Management drivers will be working an extended workday on Saturday, Jan. 21 to provide service to commercial customers. Service will be provided first to high priority customers such as hospitals and restaurants where public health is a concern.

Customers should check WM’s “Weatherboard” for collection service notices and updates at wmnorthwest.com/weatherboard.html or call 800-592-9995.

Road that Remain Closed

· 1st Street between 3rd Avenue and Central Way.

· NE 116th Street from 98th Avenue NE to 104th Avenue NE.

· NE 52nd Street between Lake Washington Boulevard and 108th Avenue.

· NE 97th Street between 112th Avenue NE and 110th Avenue NE.

· 5th Avenue South between Lake Street South and State Street South.

· 5th Place between 15th Avenue and 18th Avenue.

· NE 104th Street between 113th Court NE and 111th Avenue NE.

· Several steep slope roads are currently closed; including the side streets off Market Street from 10th Avenue north to 19th Avenue.

· 13800 block of Holmes Point Drive is closed due to a fallen tree in the roadway.

Residents and Businesses Encouraged to Help

· Call 9-1-1 for life emergencies only.

· To report fallen trees in the roadway, call Kirkland Public Works Maintenance Line at 425-587-3900 (24 hours).

· To report a fallen power line or power outage, call Puget Sound Energy at 1-888-225-5773.

· To report structural damage, call the Kirkland Building Department at 425-587-3600

.· Keep storm drains clear of snow and debris to allow for water to properly drain, reducing flooding.

· Uncover water meters for ease of access.

· Be prepared for flooding and find preparedness information at www.takewinterbystorm.org.

· Be aware of the potential of carbon monoxide poisoning. For prevention information, go to the State Department of Health website at www.doh.wa.gov and select “Winter Weather.”

· Property owners adjacent to sidewalks are responsible for keeping them clear of snow and debris.

Future Storm Updates

The City of Kirkland will issue storm updates as new impacts to services, programs, and meetings are known. To receive storm updates via email, subscribe to the “News Room” list serv at www.kirklandwa.gov/ebulletins or follow @Kirklandgov on Twitter.