COVID-19 Restrictions Cause Panic Buying in Yakima
The restrictions are back and the panic buying has begun in Yakima and across the state after Governor Jay Inslee on Sunday announced new COVID-19 restrictions for businesses and social gatherings. The restrictions start November 16 at 11:59 p.m. forcing a number of businesses to close doors including gyms, fitness facilities, bowling alleys and movie theaters. On Wednesday restaurants and bars will have to go back to drive-up and outdoor dining. Retail stores, including large grocery stores like Walmart will be limited to 25% capacity.
Social gatherings are impacted as well for the holidays. Gatherings of people from more than one household aren't allowed unless those in attendance have been in quarantine for 14 days or have tested negative and have quarantined for 7 days.
Lines to enter the West Valley Walmart started on Sunday as the capacity is limited. Shelves were empty in many local stores on Sunday as people stocked up on toilet paper as the COVID-19 concerns continued.
The new restrictions will be in place until December 14.
As for local schools? Yakima Health District officials says "while K-12 and higher education are exempt from the additional safety measures announced by the Governor’s Office, the Yakima Health District met with local superintendents earlier to discuss steps forward. The Washington State Department of Health encouraged local health jurisdictions and schools to continue doing the good work that has been conducted thus far to optimize safety in schools. In Yakima County, Kindergarten through eighth grade will continue to open up as planned by the local school districts."