Seattle, WA – A stormy Thanksgiving weekend is on tap for the Pacific Northwest as a series of Pacific fronts brings heavy rain, strong winds, and accumulating mountain snow from Friday through Sunday. The pattern will slow travel across major passes and trigger the coldest air of the season by early next week.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Seattle, WA, and Pendleton, OR, a parade of moisture-laden systems will sweep inland through the weekend, keeping conditions wet west of the Cascades and snowy above 3,000 feet. Mount Hood, Snoqualmie, and Stevens Pass could receive 8–14 inches of snow by Sunday night, while lower valleys face periods of heavy rain and gusts up to 45 mph near the coast.
The Washington State Department of Transportation warns of difficult mountain travel, especially along I-90 and U.S. 2, where chain requirements and low visibility are likely. In western Oregon, ODOT advises drivers to prepare for ponding water and possible localized flooding on I-5 and I-84 as rainfall totals exceed 2 inches in some areas.
By Monday, a surge of colder air behind the departing system will drop snow levels closer to 1,500 feet, bringing a wintry feel even to foothill communities. Travelers returning from the holiday are urged to check pass reports, carry emergency gear, and allow extra time as temperatures fall sharply overnight.
