Seattle, Washington – Drivers crossing the Washington Cascades will face snow-covered highways by 4 a.m. Wednesday, with up to 9 inches expected above 3,500 feet through Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 4 a.m. Wednesday until 10 a.m. Thursday for the Cascades of Snohomish, King, Pierce and Lewis counties. Snow totals of 7 to 9 inches are likely between 3,500 and 4,500 feet, with higher elevations — including areas near Mount Rainier — seeing locally heavier amounts.
The heaviest snowfall will target Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass along Interstate 90, and White Pass along U.S. 12 from Wednesday afternoon through late Wednesday night. Traction tire requirements and temporary closures are possible, especially during the Wednesday evening commute and early Thursday travel window.
Locations including Paradise, Crystal Mountain, Longmire, Ashford and SR-18 at Tiger Mountain Summit could see steady accumulation. WSDOT crews are expected to treat and plow major corridors, but visibility may drop during heavier bursts.
Travelers should slow down, carry chains and prepare for changing conditions. Wet snow could also weigh down tree limbs, raising the risk of isolated power outages in mountain communities.
Snow intensity should ease by late Thursday morning, though additional advisories could follow if colder air lingers into the weekend.
