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Tonight through Wednesday
Tonight, some rain and snow showers will linger in the mountains as a weather system moves out. However, light snowfall may continue over the Cascade Mountains due to leftover moisture.
Here’s the big story: A strong storm system is approaching from the Gulf of Alaska, expected to gain strength as it nears the U.S.-Canada coast. This system will bring hurricane-force winds offshore. For us, it means strong winds from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with widespread gusts of 45-60+ mph. The mountains, especially areas like Snoqualmie Pass, could see even stronger gusts of 55-60 mph. There’s a blizzard warning for parts of the Cascades because of heavy snow combined with strong winds, making visibility very poor.
While the eastern slopes of the Cascades will also get snow and strong winds, it won’t be as intense. Still, travel could be challenging, so use extra caution if you’re heading out.
Expect the first heavy wave of rain and mountain snow to arrive Tuesday night. Most areas will pick up at least a tenth of an inch of rain, except for parts of the Columbia Basin and Central Oregon. Warmer air will follow, raising snow levels and limiting snow to higher peaks later this week.