With the end of summer rapidly approach, some Seattleites are soaking up the sun before it gets gray and rainy.
But some may be wishing it away.
The bright sunrises and sunsets have been blinding drivers — making it difficult for some to see during their commute.
KIRO 7 meteorologist Nick Allard explains that as we approach the fall equinox — where night and day are nearly equal in time — the sun is getting lower and lower in the sky each day. This is why drivers going eastbound in the mornings and westbound in the evenings are noticing it.
KIRO 7 News contacted the WSDOT, asking what drivers can do to drive safely when they are on the commute.
Here are the tips they gave:
- Do not follow the cars in front of you too closely.
- Have sunglasses. Even on rainy days, during this time of year, rain can go away and the sun can come back and be bright.
- Use your sun shade.
- Most importantly, slow down for conditions. For example, if it's raining, leave extra distance so you'll have plenty of room to slow down.
For drivers looking for a less shiny commute: Daylight Saving Time ends on Nov. 6, meaning that it will be dark for early evening commuters.