Seattle, WA – Mountain travel across the Pacific Northwest is set to deteriorate rapidly by Tuesday afternoon, with multiple rounds of snow and gusty winds expected to impact key highways through midweek.
According to the National Weather Service, a widespread stretch of winter weather advisories and warnings is in effect across Washington, Oregon, and parts of Idaho, with snowfall totals ranging from 4 to 12 inches and wind gusts up to 45 mph. Snow will begin developing by late Tuesday morning in Washington’s Cascades and Okanogan Highlands before intensifying into the evening and overnight hours.
In Washington, areas including Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass, and Sherman Pass will see accumulating snow and reduced visibility, with impacts spreading into the Methow Valley and Okanogan County. Roads like I-90 and US-2 are likely to become snow-covered, especially above 2,500 to 4,000 feet. In Oregon, snowfall will expand across the Cascades, including Crater Lake and Diamond Lake, where travel delays are likely into Wednesday.
Parts of Idaho’s central Panhandle, including Lookout Pass, could see up to 9 inches of snow, further complicating regional travel.
Drivers are urged to delay mountain travel, carry chains, and prepare for rapidly changing conditions. The heaviest impacts are expected Tuesday night into Wednesday, with hazardous travel lingering into early Thursday as additional advisories remain in place.
