Seattle, Washington – Mountain travel across western Washington could grind to a halt beginning early Tuesday as a major winter storm delivers prolonged heavy snow and strong winds to the Cascades. Conditions are expected to worsen rapidly by sunrise, with pass-level snowfall rates capable of overwhelming road crews and closing key corridors.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from early Tuesday morning through Thursday afternoon for the Cascades of Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, King, Pierce, and Lewis counties. Storm totals are expected to reach 2 to 4 feet, with the heaviest snow falling Tuesday morning through Tuesday night. Winds could gust up to 35 mph, producing blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, White Pass, and Crystal Mountain are all expected to see near-continuous snowfall, with rates approaching one inch per hour at times. Impacts may extend to SR-18 at Tiger Mountain Summit and access roads near Mount Rainier, including Longmire, Paradise, and Ashford. Travel could become very difficult to impossible, especially during Tuesday and Wednesday.
Residents and travelers are urged to avoid non-essential trips, prepare for possible power outages, and carry emergency supplies if travel cannot be delayed. The winter storm warning remains in effect through Thursday afternoon, and additional closures or advisories may be issued as conditions evolve.
