Spokane, WA – Snowfall is expected to blanket Washington’s mountain passes along SR 20 through Friday morning, creating hazardous travel conditions from the North Cascades to northeast Washington. Washington Pass could see totals between 5 and 8 inches, with lower but still impactful accumulations at Sherman and Wauconda passes.
According to the National Weather Service Spokane, snow will begin over the North Cascades tonight and expand into northeast Washington and the Idaho Panhandle overnight into Thursday. A mix of rain and snow is likely on southern routes, including Stevens Pass and Blewett Pass, while Snoqualmie Pass will remain mostly rainy. Drivers should use caution on SR 20 from late Wednesday night through Thursday evening as conditions will be slick, especially near high-elevation passes.
Snowfall projections include 3 to 5 inches at Sherman Pass, 2 to 3 inches at Wauconda Pass, and lighter totals at Loup Loup and Republic. Communities like Omak, Tonasket, and Kettle Falls are unlikely to see accumulation.
Motorists should delay non-essential travel, especially overnight, and ensure emergency kits are stocked with blankets, food, and tire chains. Snow showers could linger into early Friday.
