Spokane, Washington — A colder, wetter weather pattern could bring heavy mountain snow and travel disruptions starting Sunday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, forecasters are monitoring a developing pattern expected to affect the Inland Northwest from late Sunday through Thursday. The shift could bring periods of moderate to heavy snow across mountain passes in the Cascades and the Idaho Panhandle.
Travel across key routes such as Interstate 90 near Stevens Pass and U.S. Highway 2 through Cascade passes could become difficult during heavier snowfall periods. Meteorologists say there is currently a 25–50% chance Stevens Pass could receive 12 inches or more of snow during the event, particularly if multiple storm systems track through the region early next week.
The agency noted that snow levels may also drop enough to allow some lowland snowfall, though exact amounts and locations remain uncertain. Forecast confidence is higher for mountain impacts, where colder temperatures and sustained precipitation could create wintry driving conditions.
Drivers planning trips across mountain corridors Sunday night through midweek are encouraged to monitor forecasts closely and prepare for winter travel conditions. Changing road conditions, snow accumulation, and reduced visibility may affect travel during heavier bursts of snow.
Officials say the exact timing and duration of heavier snowfall periods remain uncertain and could shift as new forecast data becomes available over the next several days.
The developing pattern arrives as many commuters and students begin the workweek, making travel planning important for those crossing Cascade mountain routes.
Residents across eastern Washington and northern Idaho are encouraged to follow forecast updates from the National Weather Service as the system approaches.
