Leavenworth, WA – Snow will begin impacting travel through the central Washington Cascades Wednesday morning, with several inches expected at higher elevations near Blewett Pass.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday for Central Chelan County, including the communities of Leavenworth and Plain.
The heaviest snowfall is expected along Blewett Pass, where 5 to 9 inches of snow could accumulate during the day. Lower elevations around Leavenworth and Plain may see a trace to about 2 inches of wet snow, mainly during the morning hours before temperatures rise.
Roads across the Cascade passes could become snow-covered and slippery at times, particularly along U.S. Highway 97 over Blewett Pass, where snowfall will persist longer into the afternoon.
Temperatures below about 3,000 feet are expected to rise above freezing by late Wednesday morning, which will change snowfall to rain or a rain-snow mix in valley communities while heavier snow continues at higher elevations.
Drivers planning to cross Cascade passes Wednesday should check the Washington State Department of Transportation travel updates and allow extra time for potentially hazardous winter driving conditions.
