Seattle, Washington – An active Pacific winter pattern is expected to intensify across Washington as the New Year approaches, with strong signals for mountain snow, lowland rain, and periodic travel disruptions from Dec 27 through Jan 9.
Large-scale atmospheric signals favor repeated Pacific storm systems moving inland during this period. According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, colder air may filter into the region behind several systems, allowing snow levels to drop at times, especially overnight and during early morning hours. The Cascade Mountains are expected to see frequent accumulating snow, with significant impacts likely at major passes.
Travel through Snoqualmie Pass on I-90, Stevens Pass on US-2, and White Pass on US-12 may be affected by snow-covered roads, chain requirements, and brief closures during stronger storms. Blowing snow and reduced visibility are possible at higher elevations when gusty winds accompany frontal passages.
In lower elevations, including Seattle, Tacoma, and Everett, precipitation is expected to fall mainly as rain. However, brief rain-snow mixes cannot be ruled out if colder air pushes farther west. Repeated systems may also bring periods of heavy rain, raising concerns for localized flooding in low-lying and poor-drainage areas.
Coastal Washington could see gusty winds with some storms, increasing the risk of isolated power outages and hazardous marine conditions. The Washington State Department of Transportation urges travelers to monitor pass conditions closely, carry chains when required, and allow extra time for holiday travel.
While breaks between storms are expected, the overall setup supports a stormy and wintry start to 2026 across Washington, with repeated snow impacts in the Cascades and ongoing travel challenges through early January.
