Heavy mountain snow, lowland rain in store for western Washington Friday

SEATTLE — Spring is so close, but not here yet. The lowlands can expect rain throughout Friday, along with short-lived bursts of wet snow or sleet, according to KOMO News Meteorologist Shannon O'Donnell.

A winter storm warning is currently in until 10 a.m. Friday for Holden Village, Stevens Pass and Stehekin, according to the National Weather Service. The cascades of Whatcom and Skagit counties will also have a winter storm warning in effect until 10 a.m. specifically in locations above 1000 feet.

Highs in Seattle are expected to be in the mid 40s, according to O'Donnell.

The heaviest lowland rain and mountain snow is expected to be over by Thursday afternoon as a cold front moves off to the east, according to KOMO News Meteorologist Kristin Clark.

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A band of steady snow is expected to remain over the central Cascades between Stevens and Snoqualmie passes through Thursday night. Clark said the Stevens Pass and Mount Baker ski area could get up to a foot of new snow, with 5-10 inches possible at Snoqualmie and White passes.

The NWS issued a Winter Storm Warning for areas of the Cascades from Whatcom to King counties through Friday morning. Drivers heading over the Cascades passes should prepare for difficult travel conditions as up to 24 inches of snow accumulation is possible by Friday morning, the NWS said.

Drivers can check the latest mountain pass conditions on the Washington State Department of Transportation website. Make sure your vehicle is stocked with the essentials in case of an emergency or getting stuck on the passes.

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The weather service said a “cool troughing pattern” over western Washington will keep the possibility of lowland snow alive during the overnight hours through Friday.

Clark said sleety showers could transition to wet snow in some lowland areas as temperatures drop close to freezing Thursday night.

Rain/snow showers are expected to continue through the weekend, with a localized accumulation of slush possible near sea level Saturday morning, according to Clark.

Snow levels are expected to lower between 400-600 feet for some areas Saturday night. The coldest temperatures are expected this weekend with overnight lows dipping into the low 30s for many lowland locations.