A big storm is about to hit the Pacific Northwest, with a large amount of snowfall, high winds, and winter temperatures possible in parts of Washington. While the storm hasn’t quite started yet, blizzard warnings have already been issued for portions of both states.
The current warnings are in effect from 4:00pm this afternoon to 10:00am Wednesday morning, delivering severe weather throughout the night. In Western Chelan County, including the cities of Holden Village, Stevens Pass, and Stehekin, blizzard conditions are expected above 2500 feet. Snow accumulation between 8 and 16 inches is possible with wind gusts as high as 50mph. Snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour are possible throughout the warning, with visibility dropping below 1/4 mile due to the snow.
Meanwhile along Washington’s West Slopes North Cascades and Passes, West Slopes North Central Cascades and Passes, and West Slopes South Central Cascades and Passes, blizzard conditions could bring between 4-12 inches of accumulation again above 2500 feet. Visibility will be greatly reduced throughout the storm, but especially near the Cascade Crest.
The cities of Roslyn and Easton, and other parts of the Upper Slopes of the Eastern Washington Cascades Crest, could see much more snow than the two previous locations, with a potential for between 8 and 20 inches of accumulation above 2000 feet. Again, visibility could drop below 1/4 mile due to the snow, and wind gusts could reach as high as 60mph.
Winter weather warnings are also in effect for other portions of Washington, including parts of Chelan County and Okanogan County, while further winter weather advisories spread across significant parts of the state. Full details on those warnings are available on the National Weather Service website.
During these blizzard warnings, travel should be avoided as much as possible. If travel is necessary, winter survival kits should be brought along as an emergency precaution. If stranded, the National Weather Service asks that you remain in your vehicle.