Washington Weather Alert: Up to 14 Inches of Snow Forecast in Cascades This Weekend
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Seattle has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Washington Cascades, warning of heavy snowfall beginning late Saturday night and continuing through Sunday evening.
The advisory will remain in effect from 11 p.m. Saturday through 11 p.m. Sunday, with forecasters predicting 6 to 10 inches of snow above 3,500 feet, and up to 14 inches possible near Mount Rainier.
Affected areas include Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, Mount Baker, White Pass, Crystal Mountain, and Mount Rainier National Park, where travel could quickly become hazardous as snow accumulates through the overnight hours.
“Travel through mountain passes could become very difficult to impossible due to snow accumulation and reduced visibility,” the NWS Seattle warned in its latest advisory. “Motorists should be prepared for changing conditions and possible travel disruptions.”
Heavy Snow and Difficult Travel Expected
The heaviest snow is expected from late Saturday night through early Sunday morning, when snowfall rates could reach up to an inch per hour in some locations. The storm will gradually taper off by Sunday evening, but slick roads and icy patches could linger through Monday morning.
In addition to the snow, strong winds are expected to accompany the system, potentially causing blowing snow and scattered power outages at higher elevations.
Residents and travelers are urged to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel across Cascade mountain passes during peak snowfall.
- Carry tire chains, emergency supplies, and winter gear if travel is unavoidable.
- Check WSDOT pass reports and NWS Seattle updates before departure.
Preparing for Winter in the Pacific Northwest
This storm marks one of the first significant snowfall events of the season for the Washington Cascades, signaling the official start of winter travel hazards in the region. Early-season storms can be particularly dangerous as drivers may not yet have winter tires or preparedness kits ready.
With temperatures dropping and additional storm systems expected next week, forecasters say this is an ideal time for residents to winterize vehicles and homes ahead of the colder months.
For continuing weather updates across Washington and the Pacific Northwest, visit NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.