Winter Weather Brings Hazardous Conditions To The Cascades

SNOQUALMIE PASS, WA — Chains were required over Snoqualmie Pass Thursday afternoon as a very wet weather system arrived in our region, promising multiple rounds of heavy snow in the mountains and lengthy downpours in the lowlands. The National Weather Service said dangerous avalanche conditions may develop in the Cascades between Thursday night and Saturday. A winter storm warning was in effect for elevations above 3,000 feet until 6 a.m. Friday.

By 8 p.m. Thursday trips between North Bend and Ellensburg took roughly two hours in both directions, according to Washington State Department of Transportation data. The chain requirements lifted over Snoqualmie Friday morning, but continued on Stevens Pass.

WSDOT said all drivers planning trips over Stevens, Snoqualmie, or White passes should carry chains and follow posted traction requirements. Drivers can check chain requirements online or by calling 511. Radio updates are provided on 530 AM and 1610 AM.

Between Thursday afternoon and Saturday, Snoqualmie and White passes are forecast to receive between 12 and 18 inches of new snow. Stevens Pass could see accumulation up to 2.5 feet, with up to 4 feet of snow at Mount Rainier.

In the Puget Sound lowlands, prolonged rainfall is expected throughout the region. 3 to 4 inches of rain could fall in Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia by Saturday. Meteorologists are closely monitoring river conditions, and a Flood Watch will remain in effect between Thursday night and Sunday night.

The National Weather Service said slight changes in precipitation, mixed with an unusually dry fall, may allow for less significant river flooding than initially expected. Those living near waterways should closely monitor updates as conditions change.