Stehekin, Wash. – Travel across the central Washington Cascades is becoming increasingly dangerous as heavy snow piles up around Stevens Pass, with another 10 to 20 inches expected before blizzard conditions arrive Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday for western Chelan County, including Stehekin, Holden Village, and Stevens Pass. Snowfall during this phase could total 10 to 20 inches, creating hazardous driving conditions along U.S. 2 at Stevens Pass and nearby mountain routes.
Conditions are expected to worsen rapidly after 6 p.m. Wednesday, when a Blizzard Warning takes effect until 5 a.m. Thursday. Wind gusts could reach 50 mph, combining with falling snow to drop visibility below one-quarter mile at times and creating whiteout conditions across higher elevations.
Weather officials note that snow levels may briefly rise Wednesday evening, causing snow to become heavier and wetter and potentially mix with rain in some locations before colder air returns early Thursday morning. Temperatures are expected to fall back into the 20s, allowing snow to continue accumulating.
The threat continues beyond the blizzard. A Winter Storm Watch is in place from late Wednesday night through Friday morning, when an additional 1 to 3 feet of snow could fall across the Cascade crest and surrounding mountains.
Washington State Department of Transportation officials urge drivers to delay travel across mountain passes unless absolutely necessary and check road conditions before leaving. More advisories or warnings could follow as the late-week storm develops.
