National Weather Service: Expect more snow, temperatures to tumble

The latest forecast from the National Weather Service calls for another round of snow late tonight and for temperatures to tumble throughout the rest of the week. 

Which means island drivers could be faced with ice and chaotic road conditions beginning late Tuesday afternoon. 

Wasn't spring just around the corner? 

According to NWS, temperatures will fall to 33 degrees Tuesday by 5 p.m., with winds from the northeast at 10 to 14 mph, increasing to 23 mph after sunset. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent, and up to three inches of snow is expected. 

Thursday's forecast call for decreasing precipitation, falling to 40 percent, but even colder temperatures throughout the day, reaching 30 degrees by 9 a.m. They will drop further -- to 25 degrees -- by night time. Winds will increase Thursday night, with gusts of up to 35 mph out of the north, and then taper off Friday. 

Temperatures are expected to rise to a high of 37 degrees by Saturday, and little or no snow is anticipated over the weekend, according to the NWS. 

For NWS's latest forecast visit, http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/sew/

Below are winter driving tips, provided courtesy of the state Department of Transportation: 

— Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights – even the hood and roof – before driving.

— Pay attention. Don't try to out-drive the conditions. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.

— Leave plenty of room for stopping.- Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows – stay back at least 200 feet.

— Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Don't stomp on the brakes. It takes more time to stop in adverse conditions.

— Don't get overconfident in your 4x4 vehicle. Remember that your four-wheel drive vehicle may help you get going quicker than other vehicles but it won't help you stop any faster. Many 4x4 vehicles are heavier than passenger vehicles and actually may take longer to stop. 

— Don't pump anti-lock brakes. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump brakes in attempting to stop. The right way is to “stomp and steer".

— Remember that trucks are heavier than cars. Trucks take longer to safely respond and come to a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.

For tips about winter storm preparedness, visit the San Juan County/Town of Friday Harbor Department of Emergency Management Web site: www.sanjuandem.net/winter

— Scott Rasmussen

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