Washington Weather Alert: First Snow of the Season to Impact I-90 Passes Sunday Night
SPOKANE, WASHINGTON — The first measurable snowfall of the season is expected to arrive across higher elevations in eastern Washington late Sunday into Monday morning, marking the region’s first major taste of winter. The National Weather Service in Spokane warns that drivers using I-90 and nearby mountain routes should prepare for slick and snow-covered conditions overnight.
Early Winter Conditions for I-90 and Mountain Routes
A strengthening low-pressure system dropping into the Pacific Northwest will spread precipitation over the Cascades and northeast Washington mountains beginning Sunday afternoon. As colder Canadian air moves south, snow levels will fall to near 3,500 feet, creating icy and hazardous travel conditions along mountain passes.
Forecasters expect the heaviest impacts over Snoqualmie Pass, Lookout Pass, and Loup Loup Pass, where rain will quickly transition to snow after sunset Sunday. Drivers traveling before dawn Monday should prepare for reduced visibility, icy roads, and light to moderate accumulations — especially those hauling trailers or commercial loads across the passes.
Travel and Safety Advisories
Officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary mountain travel during the heaviest snow late Sunday night. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) recommends checking live road updates before departing and packing winter emergency kits, including blankets, water, and tire chains.
While valleys such as Spokane and Ritzville will see mainly rain with some wet snowflakes mixing in, temperatures will drop rapidly by early Monday morning. Outdoor recreationists and early commuters should prepare for freezing overnight lows and the potential for icy bridge decks and untreated secondary roads.
Cold Week Ahead for Eastern Washington
Snow showers will taper off by Monday afternoon, but cold air will remain entrenched across the region through midweek. Forecasters say morning frost and icy spots could persist as temperatures dip into the upper 20s and low 30s each morning through Wednesday.
The National Weather Service advises that this system signals a sharp seasonal shift, transitioning Washington from a mild early fall to a more winter-like pattern as additional cold fronts line up for later in October.
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