The Inland Northwest will experience dry and mild conditions through Saturday afternoon, thanks to high pressure in the region. However, a weak weather system is set to move in over the weekend, bringing a mix of rain and snow to higher elevations. Lowland areas can expect light rainfall, while mountain passes, including Stevens and Lookout, will likely see rain with snow at higher elevations.
Saturday morning and afternoon will remain calm, though fog will linger in northern Washington and the Idaho panhandle due to a strong inversion. This weather pattern will also trap smoke from local burns, leading to poor air quality through the afternoon. Temperatures will stay mild, reaching the upper 40s to mid-50s.
By Saturday night into Sunday, the region will shift to an unsettled pattern, with light precipitation beginning. Snow levels will start high but drop overnight, reaching 4,500 feet by Sunday morning, bringing snow to mountain passes. Rainfall in the lowlands will be light, with central Washington expecting only trace amounts, while eastern Washington and parts of Idaho may see up to a quarter-inch of rain. Travel in mountain passes may be impacted as snow accumulates over the weekend.