The past few days have been tough for several Washington State ski areas, with Crystal Mountain Resort reporting a “rainy nightmare of an atmospheric river” continuing through Sunday night and into this morning (Monday, February 24). Fortunately their luck may be about to turn, with the National Weather Service forecasting some serious inbound snowfall between Monday night and Tuesday afternoon.
A Winter Storm Warning issued for the West Slopes South Central Cascades and Passes, including Crystal Mountain, forecasts heavy snow at or above elevations greater than 4,000 feet. Crystal Mountain’s base elevation starts at 4,400 feet. Between 10am Monday morning at 4pm Tuesday afternoon, the NWS is predicting snow accumulations between 12 and 24 inches, with higher totals possible over the higher peaks.
Further north at Stevens Pass, a similar Winter Storm Warning will be in effect between 10am Monday morning and 4pm Tuesday afternoon. Both Holden Village and Stevens Pass could see total snow accumulations between 1 and 2 feet at elevations above 3,000 feet (Stevens Pass base elevation starts at 4,061 feet). The snow will come with wind gusts as high as 45mph.
With any major storm like this, travel only if necessary. If you must, bring an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Those living in the area should prepare for possible power outages.
