Western Washington Braces for Weekend Rain, Wind, and Mountain Snow

The Pacific Northwest is set to experience significant rainfall and gusty winds this weekend as an atmospheric river makes its way through western Washington. This storm system is expected to deliver between 1 to 3 inches of rain from Saturday to Sunday, marking the start of the season’s wet weather.

Weather Forecast for Western Washington

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a second front will sweep across the region on Saturday, bringing heavy rain and increased winds. A Gale Watch is currently in effect for the northern coast from Saturday morning until late Saturday night.

Wind and Snow Advisories

• A Wind Advisory will be active until 5 a.m. on Sunday for parts of northwest and west central Washington.
• Cooler air will enter the Cascades by Saturday afternoon, lowering the snow level to approximately 3,500 feet.
• A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 11 p.m. Saturday through Sunday night, covering areas in the North Cascades, including Mount Rainier and Snoqualmie Pass.

Snow Accumulation Forecast

Mountain areas are expected to see substantial snowfall during this weather event. Specific forecasts include:

• 6 to 10 inches of snow for elevations above 3,500 feet.
• Mount Rainier could gain between 10 to 14 inches of fresh snow.
• Stevens, White, and Blewitt Passes will encounter steady snowfall.
• Snoqualmie Pass may experience a mix of rain and snow.

Additionally, State Route 410 Chinook Pass and State Route 123 Cayuse Pass have been closed for the season due to forecasted mountain snowfall.

Travel Advisory

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is advising travelers to prepare for winter driving conditions. Those planning to traverse the mountain passes this weekend should allocate extra time for their journeys and stay updated on travel conditions.

Summary of Weekend Weather Conditions

On Sunday, expect a continuation of heavy showers and cool temperatures, along with further snowfall in the higher mountain passes. Gusty winds will persist in the lowlands, making travel challenging. Travelers should consult WSDOT’s Mountain Pass reports for the latest updates before hitting the road.

As the weekend unfolds, residents and travelers are encouraged to share their fall storm experiences and photographs.