Seattle, Washington – Drivers crossing Washington’s Cascade passes could face rapidly worsening travel conditions within hours Sunday as multiple rounds of snow stack up through early Tuesday, with as much as 18 inches expected in the higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a Winter Weather Advisory remains active from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday across the Cascades of Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, and northern King counties. Snow totals during that period may reach 4 to 8 inches, with wind gusts up to 35 mph creating blowing snow and reduced visibility near major passes.
Conditions intensify later Sunday. A Winter Storm Warning begins at 5 p.m. Sunday and continues until 5 a.m. Tuesday, bringing the potential for 12 to 18 inches of additional snowfall across higher elevations including Stevens Pass and the Mount Baker area. Snow-covered pavement and gusty winds could force temporary closures along key mountain corridors such as U.S. Highway 2 near Stevens Pass and State Route 542 leading toward Mount Baker.
Transportation agencies warn that heavy bursts of snow may slow freight movement and weekend travel between western Washington and eastern parts of the state. Visibility may drop suddenly during stronger snow bands.
Drivers heading into the Cascades should carry emergency supplies including food, water, and flashlights, and prepare for possible power outages caused by wind and falling branches.
Warnings remain active through early Tuesday morning, and additional travel advisories could follow if snowfall rates increase Sunday night.
