Late Winter Storm Set To Arrive In Puget Sound Friday

SEATTLE, WA — Forecasters say a cold, windy and wet late-winter storm will arrive in Western Washington Friday and linger in the area through at least Sunday. According to the National Weather Service, overnight temperatures at or below freezing are expected across the region through Monday.

NWS Seattle said snow-covered roads and wind gusts are likely to make for hazardous travel conditions over the Cascades through Saturday. Stevens and Snoqualmie pass are expected to get between 3 and 6 inches of new snow, with up to a foot possible over White Pass.

Forecasters say snow levels will fall below 1,000 feet Friday night, bringing a chance for a rain-snow mix in the lowlands, and possible accumulations for areas south of Tacoma. Winds forecast for Saturday could bring another round of light snow to the Kitsap Peninsula and the eastern Olympics.

According to the National Weather Service, periods of steady rain are likely until Sunday, but flooding is not expected. Seattle, Tacoma and Everett are forecast to receive no more than half an inch of precipitation by Sunday morning.

Forecasters are predicting strong winds in parts of Whatcom and San Juan counties, with breezy conditions likely throughout Puget Sound until Sunday morning. Maximum gusts in the Seattle and Tacoma area ware expected in the 15 to 20 mph range, while Bellingham could see gusts up to 60 mph.

NWS Seattle said precipitation should taper off on Saturday afternoon, with winds calming by Sunday. Cold overnight temperatures are forecast into early next week.