Seattle, WA – Post-holiday travel across Washington’s Cascade Mountains could become hazardous Friday as another round of heavy snow develops, impacting several major mountain passes and interstate routes.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, snow is expected to increase Friday afternoon and continue through Friday night, with significant accumulations forecast across the Cascades. Snowfall totals are expected to range from 8 to 12 inches at higher elevations, including Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass, and White Pass, with locally higher amounts possible.
Lower elevations along the Cascade foothills could still see 1 to 4 inches of snow, while heavier bands set up along the crest. The NWS warns that snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and rapidly changing conditions could make travel dangerous to nearly impossible at times.
Major travel corridors affected include Interstate 90, U.S. Highway 2, and State Route 12. Snoqualmie Pass, one of the region’s busiest routes, is expected to see persistent snowfall Friday evening, a peak travel period for families returning home after Christmas.
Washington State Department of Transportation crews are expected to be active, but snowfall rates may outpace clearing efforts during heavier bursts. Traction tire requirements and temporary closures are possible if conditions worsen.
Travelers are urged to delay non-essential mountain travel, carry chains, pack winter emergency supplies, and check real-time road conditions before departure. Up-to-date pass conditions are available through wsdot.com and WSDOT mountain pass reports.
Snow is expected to gradually taper late Friday night into early Saturday, though lingering impacts could persist into the weekend.
