Drivers in the foothills and valleys north of Seattle are staring down a messy start to the week, with a winter weather advisory calling for measurable snow in Snohomish and northern King counties from early Monday into Tuesday. A few inches on higher local roads and unplowed hills could be all it takes to slow commutes and turn untreated streets into slick trouble spots.
What forecasters say
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the Foothills and Valleys of Snohomish and Northern King counties from 5 a.m. Monday to 11 a.m. Tuesday. Forecasters are calling for total snow accumulations of roughly 1 to 6 inches, with the highest amounts closest to the mountains.
Meteorologists say a Puget Sound convergence zone may set up tonight through Monday, which could boost snow totals in Cascade valleys and foothills near US-2. The advisory notes that snow-covered roads may make travel difficult at times, warns of possible temporary road closures and urges residents to prepare for potential power outages, according to the National Weather Service.
Check travel conditions before you go
State transportation officials are nudging drivers to check road and pass conditions before heading into the hills, especially if a trip over US-2 or another Cascade route is on the schedule. The Washington State Department of Transportation’s real-time travel map and mountain passes pages list camera views, chain requirements and current closures, and drivers can follow @WSDOT_Traffic or visit the travel center for updates from the Washington State Department of Transportation. If you have to be on the road, bring traction devices, warm clothing and an emergency kit, and build in extra time for slow traffic and delays.
Where it could matter locally
The advisory specifically calls out foothill and valley areas such as Monroe, Lake Roesiger, Skykomish and Duvall, spots where a fast temperature drop or a narrow band of snow can quickly create icy patches. Local reporting has already highlighted the advisory and its timing, with The News Tribune noting the forecast and expected impacts. Residents who live on higher roads or plan early morning travel are urged to allow extra time and keep an eye on fresh forecasts…