Spokane, Washington – A fast-moving weather system is expected to bring highly variable snowfall totals ranging from 0 to 4 inches across parts of the Spokane region Friday morning into early afternoon, creating rapidly changing travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, a band of heavier precipitation is forecast to move through the Inland Northwest during the morning and early afternoon hours. With temperatures hovering near freezing, precipitation may fall as rain at times but could quickly change to slush or snow under heavier bursts.
Forecasters emphasize that snow amounts could vary sharply over short distances, especially within the area highlighted by the Weather Service where Spokane, Sandpoint, Ritzville, and Kellogg are included. Some locations may see little to no accumulation, while nearby areas could receive several inches of snow in a brief period.
The uncertainty centers on where the heaviest precipitation band sets up and whether cooling from heavier rainfall will be sufficient to change rain to snow. The Weather Service notes that not everyone in the affected area will see snow, but those who do may experience sudden deterioration in road conditions.
Travel impacts are most likely during heavier precipitation bursts, when slush or snow can accumulate quickly on roadways. Visibility may also be reduced during these periods, increasing the risk for drivers unprepared for changing conditions.
The National Weather Service urges motorists to check road conditions before traveling, particularly if driving through the shaded impact area shown on forecast graphics. Even brief snow accumulation could cause slick roads during the morning commute.
Conditions are expected to improve later in the day as the system moves out of the region. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates as small changes in temperature and precipitation intensity could significantly affect local impacts.
