Seattle, Washington – Powerful wind gusts and heavy mountain snow could disrupt travel across Washington and Oregon beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as an active Pacific pattern strengthens through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal precipitation is favored across the Pacific Northwest during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch. The pattern also carries a slight risk of heavy snow from late in the period into early March across the Cascades and Columbia River corridor.
Region-wide wind impacts may target the I-5 corridor from Seattle through Tacoma and Olympia to Portland. Gusts between 60 and 70 mph are possible along coastal Washington and northwest Oregon, including Aberdeen, Astoria and Newport. Inland valleys could see gusts topping 50 mph, capable of downing tree limbs and causing scattered power outages.
Mountain travel is likely to be hazardous at times. Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass and Santiam Pass could see accumulating snow, with heavier bands reducing visibility and prompting chain requirements. Blowing snow and strong crosswinds may create sudden whiteout conditions in exposed stretches along I-84 through the Columbia River Gorge.
Residents should secure outdoor items, prepare for potential power interruptions and check WSDOT and ODOT pass conditions before traveling. The unsettled and windy pattern continues through March 2, and additional wind or winter weather advisories may be issued across the Pacific Northwest.
