Spokane, Washington – Light snowfall is creating slippery travel conditions across the Idaho Panhandle and nearby mountain passes Wednesday morning, prompting a Winter Weather Advisory that remains in effect until noon PST.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, additional snowfall of up to one inch is expected across northern Idaho, including the Northern Panhandle and Central Panhandle Mountains. While snowfall amounts are modest, cold road surfaces are allowing snow to accumulate on roadways, increasing the risk of slick travel.
The advisory includes communities such as Sandpoint, Priest River, Bonners Ferry, Clark Fork, Athol, and Eastport, as well as higher-elevation locations including Schweitzer Mountain Road. In the Central Panhandle Mountains, impacted areas include Mullan, Wallace, Kellogg, Pinehurst, Osburn, Fernwood, and St. Maries.
Several key travel routes run through the advisory area, including U.S. Highway 95, U.S. Highway 2, and Interstate 90, along with mountain corridors such as Lookout Pass, Fourth of July Pass, Dobson Pass, and Schweitzer Mountain Road. These routes may become slick at times, particularly during the morning commute and at higher elevations where temperatures remain below freezing.
Forecasters emphasize that even light snowfall can cause hazardous conditions when combined with cold pavement, shaded mountain roads, and ongoing traffic. Drivers may encounter reduced traction, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads.
The winter weather is expected to taper off by midday, with road conditions gradually improving as snowfall ends. However, slick spots may persist in shaded areas and higher elevations into the afternoon.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra time to reach destinations. Travelers can obtain the latest road conditions by calling Idaho 511 or checking local transportation updates before heading out.
The Winter Weather Advisory is scheduled to expire at noon PST, barring any additional changes in weather conditions.
