National Weather Service issues first blizzard warning for western WA in over a decade
Update: According to a NWS Seattle update on January 9 at 2:47 a.m., the blizzard warning is only in effect for Olympic mountains and valleys above 2,000 feet. NWS Seattle advises that travel should be restricted to emergencies only, but if you must travel, they suggest having a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle.
The National Weather Service Seattle issued a blizzard warning for western Washington for the first time in over a decade on Sunday.
The blizzard warning is in effect for the Cascade mountain passes from 4 a.m. Tuesday to 10 a.m. on Wednesday.
The blizzard warning is due to back-to-back winter storms that will impact the Pacific Northwest this week. The storms will bring heavy snowfall and high winds beginning on Monday, according to the NWS in Seattle.
The heaviest snowfall is expected to happen on Tuesday, and the passes are expected to receive two to four feet of snow and high winds of up to 50 mph. Interstate 90 and Routes 97, 2,12 and 20 will all be affected by the storm.
If you’re driving over the mountain passes, be prepared for winter driving conditions and carry chains or use snow tires. The Washington State Department of Transportation is advising that people take the blizzard warning seriously and prepare for the challenging driving conditions if it’s absolutely necessary to drive through the passes.
As of Monday, Jan. 8 at noon, chains are required for all vehicles, except for All-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles traveling on I-90 Snoqualmie Pass and U.S. 12 White Pass.
What is a blizzard?
According to the NWS Seattle, a blizzard occurs when there is blowing snow, winds of 35 mph or stronger and less than 25% visibility for over three hours.
It has been 12 years since the last blizzard warning was issued for western Washington.
High winds in western Washington
High winds will also impact lowland regions in western Washington starting late Monday night. High west and southwest winds will continue on Tuesday with peak winds in the south Puget Sound ranging from 35 to 45 mph.
In the northern part of the state, such as in Bellingham, winds are expected to reach between 40 to 45 mph.
NWS Seattle suggests people secure any loose objects that are outdoors, stay clear of trees and downed power lines and prepare for power outages.
This story was originally published January 8, 2024 at 12:52 PM with the headline "National Weather Service issues first blizzard warning for western WA in over a decade."
