Cle Elum, WA – Hazardous winter weather is expected to impact Cle Elum and the Eastern Washington Cascades on Wednesday, with snow, powerful winds, and near-blizzard conditions possible along major mountain travel routes.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday for the lower and upper slopes of the Eastern Washington Cascades Crest. Snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches are expected in lower elevations, while higher terrain above 3,000 feet could see between 4 and 12 inches.
Forecasters say winds will be a major concern, with gusts reaching 50 to 60 mph and locally higher in exposed areas. These winds, combined with periods of moderate to heavy snowfall, could lead to blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility, especially along Interstate 90 near Cle Elum, Roslyn, Easton, and Snoqualmie Pass, as well as U.S. Highways 12 and 97.
The National Weather Service warns that near-blizzard conditions are possible early Wednesday morning as a strong cold front moves through the region. Temperatures are expected to fall rapidly behind the front, increasing the risk of icy and snow-covered roadways.
Similar winter weather advisories are in effect across the Oregon Cascades and Blue Mountains, where wind gusts could reach up to 75 mph and snowfall of 1 to 7 inches may impact highways including I-84, U.S. 26, and U.S. 20.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and check the latest road conditions before traveling through mountain passes. Officials recommend carrying winter emergency kits and avoiding unnecessary travel during the most hazardous periods.
