The Pacific Northwest is due for more severe weather this week, as heavy rains and snow dominate the region once again.
Heavy snow “Rainfall of 2 to 12 inches over the past several days, with locally higher amounts to 17 inches, has increased soil moisture to very high levels across western Washington. This amount of rain will put extra pressure on soil instability, leading to an increased threat of landslides and debris flows, especially from recent burned areas,” a report from the Weather Channel said earlier this week. to fall in the northern Cascades and Rockies.
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Heavy Snow forecast to Fall in the northern Cascades, Rockies
On Tuesday, December 16, the National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Warning for a large area of Washington, predicting up to three feet of snow.
“Heavy snow will occur over much of the northern Cascades this evening before expanding into the southern Cascades beginning Wednesday morning, after the passage of a potent cold front. Several feet of snow are expected to accumulate over the Cascades and Olympics by Thursday morning,” the NWS said.
“Rain and mountain snow spread into the Northern Rockies, where 1-2 feet (isolated higher amounts possible) may accumulate on Wednesday. Wind, winter, and flooding related watches and warnings are in effect for much of the Northwest for the next couple of days at least.”
Snow accumulations were from 10 to 20 inches at Stevens Pass and 18 to 36 inches at Mount Baker. Winds gusting to 65 mph.
Public Warned to Avoid Travel
The National Weather Service issued a strong caution against traveling in the region, stating that “travel could be very difficult to impossible.” The NWS advised individuals who choose to travel anyhow to take extra precautions and bring supplies.
“If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Prepare for possible power outages. Persons should consider delaying all travel. Motorists should use extreme caution if travel is absolutely necessary,” it said.
The Winter Weather Warning is in effect from Tuesday AM until Wednesday, December 17, at 10 p.m. PT.
