Winter Storm Warning: Up to 16 Inches of Snow Expected in Northwest

SEATTLE, Washington — Parts of Washington state are expected to receive up to 16 inches of snow from early Wednesday afternoon until Friday morning, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a winter weather alert warning of hazardous travel conditions. The advisory highlights potential risks for commuters on Wednesday and Thursday.

The NWS urges residents and travelers to drive carefully, stating that “travel could be very difficult to impossible” in some areas. Power outages are also possible due to accumulated snow.

The updated Winter Weather Advisory covers the Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit Counties, as well as Western Okanogan County. For the Cascades, snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches are expected along the Cascade Crest and highest points of Highway 20 from Wednesday at 4 p.m. through Friday at 10 a.m. (PST). The most challenging travel conditions are anticipated from Wednesday evening through Thursday morning, and again Thursday night.

Residents in Western Okanogan County could see up to 15 inches of accumulated snow above 4,000 feet, particularly near Washington Pass. An estimated five inches may fall by 4 p.m. on Wednesday with snowfall rates potentially reaching around an inch per hour overnight.

The NWS advises those in affected regions to check current road and weather updates before traveling and maintain an emergency kit in their vehicles, which should include essential items like a first aid kit, a windshield scraper, jumper cables, shovels, sand, flashlights, a cell phone charger, warm clothing, drinking water, nonperishable food, and a tow rope.

“Travel could be very difficult,” the NWS cautioned, especially along Highway 20 during peak travel times. Residents are also reminded to ensure that their homes, offices, and vehicles are stocked with necessary supplies. The winter weather advisory remains in effect through Friday at 10 a.m.

Travelers are encouraged to postpone non-essential trips during the advisory period and exercise extreme caution if travel is unavoidable. The NWS and local agencies will continue to provide important safety recommendations and weather updates.