SPOKANE, WA – A sharp autumn wind will sweep across eastern Washington today, rattling trees, kicking up leaves, and signaling a true seasonal shift. The region faces gusty winds, steady rain, and the first hints of mountain snow as colder air moves in behind a late-October front.
The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a Wind Advisory from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. PDT Friday, covering Spokane, Cheney, Pullman, Colville, and surrounding areas. Southwest winds of 15–25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph will accompany the system, strongest late this afternoon into evening. High-profile vehicles should use caution along I-90 and U.S. 195, where crosswinds may make driving challenging.
Rain builds through the day, with showers turning widespread by late afternoon. The wind-whipped rain could briefly reduce visibility during the evening commute. A rumble of thunder isn’t out of the question as the cold front pushes through.
By Saturday, temperatures drop into the 50s, and snow levels fall to around 4,000 feet. Light snow is possible across the northern Idaho Panhandle and higher elevations near Chewelah and Metaline Falls. Sunday remains unsettled, with highs in the lower 50s and another chance of rain before drier air returns early next week.
Looking ahead, early signs point to a calmer, brighter stretch into Halloween week — but temperatures will stay crisp. For now, secure decorations, charge flashlights, and expect a blustery, wet end to the week as the Inland Northwest gets its first real taste of late fall.
