Warmer weather means better travel
What Santa takes away from the kiddies, he gives to their parents.
Local weather forecasters are predicting rain and warmer temperatures in the lower elevations of Washington and North Idaho through Christmas, which means snowmen will be melting, but that holiday trip over the pass could be a lot less stressful.
Northwest weather is now coming from the Pacific Ocean via California and southern Oregon, said Rocco Pelatti of the National Weather Service. That means warmer air for the foreseeable future.
About 63.5 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more over the upcoming holiday weekend, according to AAA. That’s up 1.7 percent over last year.
The bulk will take to the nation’s highways, and can count lower gas prices as one of the blessings of the holidays.
“Compared to where they were, they look good,” said AAA Washington/Inland spokesman Dave Overstreet.
Washington and Idaho gas prices have dropped sharply since the summer. The average cost Wednesday for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline was $2.19 in Washington and $2.07 in Idaho. That’s down about 25 cents from just a month ago.
Even so, gas is still about 13 to 28 cents higher than this time last year.
Those who prefer to travel by air have their own good news/bad news situation.
Ticket prices are up substantially over the last holiday season, but you can now bring your manicure scissors with you. Ditto for any scissors with 4-inch or smaller blades and some small tools.
Higher ticket prices aren’t keeping fliers away, said Spokane International Airport spokesman Todd Woodard.
Airport traffic was up 6 percent last month over November 2004.
“This could historically be our highest year,” Woodard said.
He advised people to get to the airport two hours early to make sure they have time to check their luggage and proceed through security.
And remember to leave those packages unwrapped unless you want the security staff to have the pleasure of tearing them open. A pile of tissue paper and gift bags will make for quick assembly at the final destination.