Western Washington is bracing for a series of potent weather systems this week, bringing a significant boost to the mountain snowpack while drenching the Seattle metro area with consistent rain.
According to the latest forecasts, a “conveyor belt” of Pacific storms is lined up to hit the region, creating challenging travel conditions through the mountain passes but offering a welcome sight for local ski resorts.
Key details of the upcoming weather pattern:
- Significant Mountain Totals: The Cascade Mountains are expected to see the heaviest impact, with some areas projected to receive between 1 and 3 feet of new snow by the end of the week. This has prompted winter weather advisories for Stevens and Snoqualmie Passes.
- Difficult Travel Conditions: Travelers should prepare for traction requirements and potential pass closures. Heavy snowfall rates, combined with gusty winds, are expected to create periods of near-zero visibility and blowing snow through Wednesday.
- Wet and Breezy Lowlands: In Seattle and the surrounding Puget Sound lowlands, the primary story will be rain. Multiple rounds of precipitation will move through, keeping daytime temperatures in the mid-to-upper 40s. While widespread flooding isn’t currently a major concern, localized ponding on roads is likely during the heaviest downpours.
- Timing of the Systems: The first wave arrived Monday morning, with a second, stronger system expected to push through Tuesday night into Wednesday. A brief break may occur on Thursday before a third front arrives to round out the work week.
- Avalanche Danger: Due to the rapid accumulation of heavy, wet snow on top of an existing base, experts warn that avalanche danger will increase significantly throughout the week. Backcountry travelers are urged to check updated reports before heading out.
While the gray and soggy conditions may be a nuisance for city dwellers, the heavy mountain snow is a crucial development for the region’s water supply and late-season winter sports.
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