Pacific Northwest Braces for Weekend Snowstorm, First Alert Activated

SEATTLE — A significant weather system is set to bring lowland snow and heavy rain to the Pacific Northwest starting Thursday night, with impacts expected to last through Sunday. KING 5 has activated its First Alert for the region, warning of potential disruptions to travel, property, and daily life.

The system will begin with steady rain across western Washington Thursday night, with rainfall amounts ranging from 0.5 to 2 inches by Saturday morning. Lesser amounts are expected north and east of the Olympic Peninsula due to rain shadowing. Two distinct rounds of rain are forecast: the first from Thursday night into Friday morning, and the second from late Friday morning into Friday night.

Mountain snow will intensify during this period, with the Cascades expected to receive 10 to 30 inches of snow above 3,000 feet. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Cascades from 10 p.m. Thursday through 4 p.m. Saturday.

As temperatures drop, snow levels will lower from 4,000 feet to 500 feet by Saturday, increasing the likelihood of lowland snow. Areas from Snohomish County northward, including Whatcom County, the San Juan Islands, and Clallam County, could see accumulations of up to 2 inches. Winter Storm Watches have been issued for these regions, starting Saturday night and lasting through Monday morning.

Foothill communities above 500 feet may also experience similar snow accumulations. While lowland areas closer to sea level are expected to see minimal snow, brief coatings are possible in some spots. By Sunday, snow levels will drop closer to sea level, broadening the chance of lowland snow across western Washington.

The system will weaken by Monday, reducing precipitation and limiting additional snow accumulations. However, cold air will persist, with high temperatures remaining in the 30s early next week.

This weather event marks a significant pattern change for the region, bringing the first snow of the season to Seattle and Portland. Residents are advised to prepare for potential travel difficulties and power outages.