Spokane, WA – Drivers crossing Washington’s mountain passes could face slick, snow-covered roads within hours as a multi-day system pushes into the region by midday Tuesday, setting up hazardous travel through the end of the workweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, snow will begin across the Cascades by around 12 p.m. Tuesday, intensifying through Wednesday night. Northern Idaho mountains will see snow develop Tuesday afternoon, with impacts lasting into Friday afternoon. A lower-confidence wintry mix could reach valley locations, including parts of eastern Washington, between Wednesday night and early Thursday morning.
Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass, and Lookout Pass are expected to see the most significant impacts, with reduced visibility and snow-covered lanes likely during peak travel periods. On I-90 and US-2, conditions may deteriorate quickly after sunset Tuesday, especially above 3,000 feet. In Spokane and surrounding lowlands, any mix of rain and snow late Wednesday could create brief slick spots for the Thursday morning commute.
Travelers should delay non-essential trips through mountain corridors, carry tire chains, and check WSDOT pass reports before departure. Conditions may shift quickly with elevation.
Snow and travel advisories remain in effect through Friday afternoon, with additional updates likely as the system evolves.
