More snowfall expected in the Olympia area Thursday, but when will it end?
More snow was expected to fall over the Olympia area Wednesday night and Thursday, but rain may return this weekend.
Though Wednesday morning featured clear skies, lowland snow was expected to return late Wednesday night and accumulate the most Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle.
By Thursday evening, the NWS predicts the Olympia area could see 2-3 inches of additional snow.
Notably, the NWS estimates a 10-20% chance for freezing rain on Thursday in parts of west Thurston and Lewis counties as well as most of Grays Harbor and Pacific counties. Such weather could cause ice to accumulate on roads, including Interstate 5 between Centralia and Longview.
State Patrol responded to 153 collisions in Pierce and Thurston counties on Monday, according to Trooper Robert Reyer. By Tuesday afternoon, he said troopers had responded to an additional 168 collision between the two counties.
Some roads may still be dangerous even if they appear clear and plowed, according to the Washington Emergency Management Division. If left untreated, those roads may still have compact snow and sheets of ice.
Emergency Management encourages drivers to stay home if they do not need to be out. Thurston County echoed that advice Wednesday morning, adding drivers can continue to expect challenging conditions, especially on side streets and hills.
If drivers must go out, officials recommend driving slowly and increasing following distances.
The NWS also advises drivers keep their gas tanks at least half full and carry an emergency kit in case they are stranded.
Cold temperatures will continue through Friday, per the NWS, but temperatures should somewhat moderate when the weekend arrives.
The highest temperature in the Olympia area may reach about 37 degrees on Thursday and then 34 degrees on Friday, according to the forecast. Meanwhile, lows will fall to around 24 degrees on both days.
Highs over the weekend are expected to reach the low 40s with lows in the mid 30s, per the NWS. As the area warms up, residents can expect rain instead of snow. However, periods of alternating rain and snow may occur early next week.
Rain on snow may bring additional challenges. The NWS says minor flooding may result, especially in urban areas where storm drains are blocked by snow and ice.
Given the continued cold conditions, the NWS recommends residents limit their exposure to the cold. This is especially important for vulnerable populations, those without access to adequate heating, pets and livestock.
This story was originally published December 29, 2021 at 10:59 AM with the headline "More snowfall expected in the Olympia area Thursday, but when will it end?."
