Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Washington Mountains as Up to 10 Inches of Snow Expected Tuesday and Wednesday
WASHINGTON STATE — A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the central and southern Washington Cascades, where up to 10 inches of snow and a glaze of ice are expected to create hazardous travel conditions from Tuesday through Wednesday.
Meteorologists urge anyone traveling for the holiday to cross the mountain passes early before the storm system intensifies.
Heavy Snow and Freezing Rain Expected
Snow levels will hover around 2,000 feet, meaning Snoqualmie Pass and Stevens Pass will see the heaviest accumulation — between 8 and 10 inches by Wednesday morning.
Meanwhile, the Kittitas Valley can expect around 2 inches of snow with the potential for freezing rain creating an icy glaze on roadways and bridges.
“Travel over the Cascades will become challenging, especially late Tuesday into early Wednesday,” meteorologists warned. “Drivers should plan for slow travel, snow-packed roads, and reduced visibility.”
Travel Impacts and Safety Precautions
The National Weather Service advises motorists to:
- Carry tire chains or traction devices if crossing Snoqualmie or Stevens Pass.
- Check WSDOT road updates before departure.
- Avoid nonessential travel during the heaviest snowfall periods.
Lowland areas such as Seattle and Tacoma are expected to remain mostly rainy, though higher hills around Olympia and Everett could briefly see a rain-snow mix early Tuesday.
Timing and Forecast
- Tuesday Morning: Snow begins in the Cascades, mixing with rain at lower elevations.
- Tuesday Night – Wednesday Morning: Heaviest snowfall, potential freezing rain, and whiteout conditions in mountain passes.
- Wednesday Afternoon: Gradual tapering, but lingering slick spots expected.
Travelers heading east toward Yakima, Wenatchee, and Kittitas should prepare for deteriorating conditions along Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 2.
Forecasters recommend completing mountain travel before Tuesday afternoon to avoid delays and potential road closures.
Stay tuned to chicagomusicguide.com for continuous winter weather updates and safety information.