Spokane, Washington – Frost and areas of dense fog are impacting parts of the Inland Northwest Tuesday morning, creating slick travel conditions on untreated roads, bridges, and sidewalks during the early commute.
According to the National Weather Service office in Spokane, motorists should be prepared for locally hazardous conditions through approximately 10 a.m., particularly in and around Spokane and surrounding outlying areas. Frost development overnight has led to icy patches on roads, parking lots, and sidewalks, especially where surfaces remain untreated.
Dense fog is also contributing to reduced visibility in some locations, compounding travel concerns during the morning hours. Roadways including Interstate 90, US-2, US-195, and nearby state routes may experience sudden changes in visibility and traction, particularly on bridges and overpasses where frost forms more quickly.
The National Weather Service notes that frost-related slick spots are most likely in shaded areas and locations outside urban centers where road treatment is limited. Drivers are encouraged to slow down, increase following distance, and use caution when braking, especially during early-morning travel.
As temperatures rise later this morning, frost conditions are expected to gradually improve, and fog should lift as visibility increases. No additional winter precipitation is expected with this event, but lingering slick spots may persist longer in sheltered or elevated locations.
Officials emphasize that even brief frost events can lead to accidents when drivers are unprepared. Pedestrians should also use caution on sidewalks and parking lots, where icy patches may not be immediately visible.
This weather setup may be most impactful for commuters, school transportation, and freight traffic traveling through the Spokane metro area and along I-90 early Tuesday. Conditions are expected to improve by late morning as daytime warming takes effect.
