Mount Baker, Wash. – Up to 6 inches of additional snow and wind gusts reaching 35 mph could shut down stretches of State Route 542 before 4 a.m. Friday, making mountain travel hazardous across the North Cascades.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit counties until 4 a.m. Friday. Snow will continue through the evening, piling up on higher elevations near Mount Baker. Gusty winds may reduce visibility at times and increase the risk of falling tree branches.
Road crews are monitoring SR-542, the Mount Baker Highway, where snow-covered pavement and drifting could trigger temporary closures overnight. Conditions will also remain slick along portions of the North Cascades Highway, particularly at higher passes.
Farther south, in the Cascades of Snohomish and northern King counties, including Stevens Pass, additional snow accumulations up to 3 inches are expected. Winds could also gust to 35 mph, creating blowing snow and icy stretches on US-2. Bridges and overpasses are especially vulnerable to rapid icing.
Travelers should slow down, carry chains and prepare for sudden changes in visibility. Power outages are possible where heavy snow and gusty winds weigh down tree limbs.
The advisory remains in effect until 4 a.m. Friday, and further updates are possible if snowfall rates intensify overnight.
