Washington — Cold air presses into the Inland Northwest this morning, biting at hands and stiffening car doors. Streetlights glow against mostly cloudy skies as Spokane wakes up near 28°F. Winter feels firmly in place, and early travel carries some risk.
Temperatures stay cold through the morning, with lows dipping near 21°F in spots. Calm winds allow frost to linger on bridges and shaded roads. Slick patches may develop, especially where moisture remains. Drivers should slow down and allow extra space during the early commute.
By afternoon, skies brighten and temperatures rise toward 37°F. It feels calmer, but winter stays close. Tonight brings increasing clouds and a chance of rain and snow after midnight, with snow levels lowering toward 1,900 feet. Accumulation looks limited, but a brief mix could catch drivers off guard.
Wednesday turns active. A wintry mix is possible during the morning hours, including light snow or freezing rain before warmer air arrives. Temperatures climb near 39°F, allowing precipitation to shift mainly to rain by afternoon. Conditions may deteriorate quickly before midday, especially on untreated roads.
Rain chances increase Wednesday night into Thursday. Highs reach around 40°F Thursday, with rain likely at times. Snow levels rise above 3,800 feet, reducing valley snow risk but keeping mountain passes slushy. Keep umbrellas ready and plan extra travel time.
Friday stays unsettled, with rain likely and highs near 45°F. Nights remain cold enough for refreezing, raising concerns for flash freezing after sunset where roads dry during the day.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook suggests near-normal precipitation and a gradual warming trend into early February. That means fewer snow chances but continued winter variability.
Five-Day Outlook for Spokane, Washington
- Today: Partly sunny. High 37. Cold morning.
- Wednesday: Wintry mix early, then rain. High 39.
- Thursday: Rain likely. High 40.
- Friday: Rain likely. High 45.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy. High 47.
