Washington Lowland Snow Outlook: Flurries Could Arrive By Sunday

SEATTLE — The potential for some lowland snow in Washington this month remains intact, especially as temperatures dip into the freezing range over the upcoming weekend, according to the latest forecasts.

Late last week, the National Weather Service flagged the possibility for snow in late January, citing a high likelihood of below-normal temperatures across the region between Jan. 21 and Jan. 27. Now, forecasters say early indications suggest cooler conditions may allow for snow levels to drop into the lowlands Sunday, as morning temperatures near freezing.

At this point, the National Weather Service expects a mix of rain and snow Sunday and little accumulation in the lowlands — but that outlook may change as forecasts firm up later in the week.

"Under the current scenario, snowfall totals look generally light and under 1" for most areas," NWS Seattle wrote in a briefing Monday. "There is a 25% chance of seeing greater than 1" and around a 5% chance of seeing greater than 2"."

In the near term, the Seattle-area forecast calls for dry condition across Western Washington through Tuesday, with afternoon highs near seasonal normals in the mid-to-upper 40s. Overnight lows are poised to get a little chillier and in the 30s for most. A chance for light rain is possible Tuesday night before dry weather returns Wednesday.

Here is the weather outlook for the Seattle-area, leading up to Sunday:

• Tuesday: 47°/40° (Partly sunny, chance of PM rain)
• Wednesday: 46°/39° (Mostly cloudy)
• Thursday: 45°/36° (Slight chance of rain)
• Friday: 44°/33° (Mostly sunny)
• Saturday: 43°/35° (Mostly sunny)

After the first shot at snow Sunday, forecasters say cooler temperatures could stick around through Tuesday, potentially allowing for even more lowland snow into early next week. More details on the likelihood, location and timing of snow will be shared as the weekend draws near.