Seattle, Washington – Residents across Washington and Oregon should prepare for a wetter-than-average stretch March 5-11, with periodic rain and mountain snow impacting travel across the Pacific Northwest.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, much of Oregon and Washington falls within a 40 to 50 percent chance of above-normal precipitation during the March 5-11 period. While the strongest rain signal is centered farther east and south across the central United States, the Northwest remains favored for repeated systems moving in from the Pacific. Temperatures are expected to trend near to slightly below average, especially along the Cascades and higher terrain.
In Seattle, Tacoma, Portland, Eugene and Spokane, lowland areas will see periods of steady rain. Snow levels may fluctuate, bringing additional snowfall to the Cascade passes, including Snoqualmie and Stevens Pass, at times.
Rainfall could create ponding along Interstate 5, Interstate 84 and U.S. 101, particularly in urban corridors with poor drainage. Mountain travel may slow during heavier bursts of snow.
Residents should clear storm drains, check travel conditions before crossing mountain passes and allow extra commute time during heavier precipitation. The unsettled pattern continues through March 11, and additional advisories could be issued if precipitation trends increase.
