Seattle, WA – Mountain travel across western Washington is set to become dangerous by midday Tuesday as heavy snow rapidly blankets key Cascade passes, threatening major travel disruptions through Wednesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 11 a.m. Tuesday until 11 p.m. Wednesday for the Cascades, including Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, and areas near Mount Rainier. Snow totals are expected to reach 10 to 20 inches above 2,500 feet, with wind gusts up to 40 mph creating blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
Critical routes like Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass and U.S. 2 over Stevens Pass will likely see snow-covered lanes and hazardous driving conditions, especially during the evening and Wednesday morning travel periods when snowfall rates peak. Areas near Crystal Mountain, White Pass, and Mount Baker will also experience significant impacts.
Drivers should delay travel if possible and carry chains, food, and emergency supplies. Power outages are possible as heavy snow and wind stress trees and power lines.
The heaviest snow is expected Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with conditions gradually improving late Wednesday night, though additional alerts could follow.
