Lowland Snow Chances Return To The Seattle Forecast

SEATTLE — Forecasters see a small shot for more lowland snow arriving in Western Washington in the days ahead, potentially beginning Friday evening with a few more chances into early next week.

First up, the National Weather Service forecasts widespread rain and gusty winds developing across the region late Wednesday night and lingering into Friday, with a moderate bout of snow showers due in the mountains, where a winter weather advisory will be in effect.

Snow levels may fall closer to sea level Friday evening, which could provide a window for some snow accumulations at low elevations, including around Seattle.

"Snow levels will remain low Friday night as the next Pacific frontal system arrives, setting up another threat for lowland snow," NWS Seattle wrote Wednesday. "Coolest temps and lowest snow levels will be areas near the Olympics and Cascades, and also in the North Interior. Most areas will likely see a rain/snow mix but there is a 10-30 percent probability of seeing greater than 1 inch in the interior (Seattle south) with 40-50 percent north of Seattle to the border."

With overnight lows sticking close to freezing into early next week, forecasters said there could be additional chances for snow before things dry out.

Looking ahead to next week, the Climate Prediction Center favors cooler temperatures lingering while the probabilities for precipitation even out. Things may get wet again to close out December, but long-range outlooks are inconclusive on the temperature front. Whether or not Puget Sound will be treated to a white Christmas remains to be seen.