Seattle, WA – Drivers heading into the Washington Cascades today should prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions as a Winter Weather Advisory goes into effect late this morning, bringing heavy snow and potential icing across multiple major passes.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Seattle, the advisory begins 10 a.m. Tuesday and continues through 4 a.m. Wednesday, affecting the Cascades of Southern King, Snohomish, Northern King, Pierce, and Lewis Counties. Snowfall totals of 8 to 10 inches are expected above 2,000 feet, impacting Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, White Pass, Crystal Mountain, Paradise, Mount Rainier, Longmire, Ashford, and SR-18 at Tiger Mountain Summit.
The NWS reports that freezing rain is possible Tuesday evening near Snoqualmie Pass, creating the potential for a light glaze of ice. Even small amounts of ice could significantly worsen traction and increase the risk of spinouts or closures during the evening hours.
Travel across all major passes could become very difficult, with the most hazardous window expected late Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday night. Reduced visibility, slick roads, and periods of heavy snowfall may disrupt holiday-week travel and commercial freight routes.
Drivers are urged to slow down, use chains where required, and prepare for possible power outages in higher-elevation communities due to wet, heavy snow.
What are you seeing in your area today? Live nearby a pass? Share your updates below to help other readers plan their drive.
