Seattle, Washington – Mountain travel across Washington’s Cascade passes could quickly deteriorate beginning Sunday morning, with multiple rounds of snow expected to pile up through early Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday for the Cascades of Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, and northern King counties. Forecasters expect 4 to 8 inches of snow during that period with wind gusts up to 35 mph, which may produce blowing snow and reduced visibility near mountain passes.
A stronger system arrives later Sunday. A Winter Storm Warning begins at 5 p.m. Sunday and continues until 5 a.m. Tuesday, bringing 12 to 18 inches of total snowfall across higher elevations including Stevens Pass and the Mount Baker area. Snow-covered highways and strong gusts could lead to temporary closures and difficult travel on U.S. Highway 2 at Stevens Pass and State Route 542 toward Mount Baker.
Farther south, another Winter Weather Advisory begins at 5 a.m. Monday and continues until 5 p.m. Tuesday for the Cascades of southern King County along with Pierce and Lewis counties. Passes such as Snoqualmie Pass on Interstate 90 and White Pass on U.S. 12 could see 6 to 10 inches of snow with gusty winds limiting visibility.
Drivers should slow down, allow extra time, and check Washington State Department of Transportation pass conditions before traveling. Carrying emergency supplies in vehicles is also recommended in case delays occur.
Snow may continue to impact Cascade travel through Tuesday morning, and additional advisories could be issued if snowfall intensifies.
