Seattle was blanketed with snow for more than a week starting Christmas night and accumulating over subsequent days. The temperature stayed below freezing, eventually hitting 36 degrees Jan. 2, the warmest since Christmas.
City officials warned residents to avoid driving if possible, and King County Metro restricted bus routes, keeping them away from steep hills.
By Jan. 3, rain had replaced the snow, slowly melting the accumulated drifts in classic Seattle fashion. The National Weather Service anticipated continued rain throughout the week, with some snow at elevations of 400 to 500 feet.
The city and other governments opened severe weather shelters for people experiencing homelessness to offer some protection from the elements. However, according to PubliCola editor Erica C. Barnett, those shelters closed the morning of Jan. 3 as chilling rain continued to fall. New Mayor Bruce Harrell ended an emergency incentive order put in place by outgoing Mayor Jenny Durkan.
Ashley Archibald was the editor of Real Change through July 14, 2023, after working as a staff reporter for the newspaper for several years. She left to become a communication specialist for Purpose. Dignity. Action., previously known as Seattle’s Public Defender Association. Real Change is proud to know this talented person.
Read more of the Jan. 5-11, 2022 issue.