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Metro winter guide
This guide provides information to help you better use Metro services during snow.
1. Your bus runs on its regular schedule
You can find route information listed on the Schedule & Maps page.
2. Your bus runs on its snow route
You should plan ahead by learning the snow route of your bus.
3. Your bus route may be canceled
During the worst weather, Metro may enact its Emergency Snow Network.
Check your bus route status
Our service advisories will keep you informed about any delays, reroutes or closures that may impact your commute, allowing you to plan your best trip and stay updated on the most recent service information.
Use Text for Departures
Find the next departure times of transit service at your stop by texting your stop ID to 62550, and you will receive a return message with the next departure times at that stop.
Emergency Snow Network
During severe winter weather, Metro may activate its Emergency Snow Network (ESN), a reduced network of bus routes and chained shuttles designed to serve the most riders in the safest way possible. Metro's ESN focuses bus service on main roadways that will be plowed and de-iced and avoids steep hills.
Metro will announce its intended activation of the ESN one day in advance. The ESN remains in effect for an entire service day, even if conditions improve.
Access Paratransit
Access riders should contact the call center on days with snow or icy conditions. The call center’s phone system will provide special announcements when service is either disrupted or suspended. Access vehicles may still be available for emergency services such as life sustaining trips.
Local Phone: 206-205-5000
Toll-Free: 1-866-205-5001
WA Relay 711
Water Taxi
Visit our Water Taxi page for current schedules, delays and cancelations due to weather conditions.
Metro Flex
Call Metro Flex Customer Service or check the Metro Flex app for more information.
Local Phone: 206-258-7739
Link light rail or Sounder trains
Vanpool
Vanpool drivers – be ready for winter weather road conditions! Discuss a snow and alternate commute plan with your group. Don't operate your vanpool in unsafe or unfamiliar conditions—if you don't have to drive in icy or snowy conditions, don't.
Please review your vanpool emergency procedures and monitor regional weather advisories and road conditions. Quick note: weather can change in a flash – so please monitor weather early and often, especially before those icy mornings or during the day before that long drive home.