A winter weather advisory is in effect across the Washington Cascades as snow is expected to make travel hazardous from Tuesday evening into Wednesday.
The National Weather Service said the warning runs from 5pm on Tuesday, 27 October, until 5pm on Wednesday, 28 October, with snow levels falling from about 4,500 to 5,000 feet to between 3,000 and 4,000 feet.
Snow and difficult driving conditions expected
Forecasters expect up to four inches of snow overnight in the Cascades, with higher totals possible near and south of Mount Rainier. A further four inches could fall on Wednesday, while snow is likely to continue at higher elevations into Thursday.
The heaviest snowfall is expected above 4,000 feet. The advisory covers key routes and mountain areas including Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, White Pass, Mount Rainier and Crystal Mountain.
The National Weather Service is forecasting between four and eight inches in the higher parts of the Cascades around Snoqualmie Pass, while six to 12 inches is possible in the Cascade areas of Pierce and Lewis counties, including Mount Rainier and White Pass.
At Snoqualmie Pass itself, forecasters said snow could mix with rain, with one to three inches possible. Stevens Pass and Washington Pass could receive between four and eight inches.
Snow levels are expected to remain between 2,500 and 3,500 feet on Wednesday night and into Thursday, allowing lighter accumulations to continue at mountain passes. The Olympic Mountains may see a trace to two inches during the same period.
The Seattle National Weather Service office warned that snow would be heaviest early on Wednesday and urged drivers to check conditions before setting out.
Motorists travelling across the passes have been advised to slow down, allow extra time and prepare for rapidly changing conditions, including slippery roads, bridges and overpasses.
