Winter Weather Warnings for Three States As 16 Inches of Snow Set to Hit

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a series of winter storm warnings that up to 16 inches of snow will fall in some parts of the country.

Why It Matters

Across parts of Alaska, Montana, and Washington, the NWS predicted wintry conditions that could make driving challenging and hazardous.

What To Know

In Washington, winter storm warnings remain in effect for the Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit Counties and Western Okanogan County, including areas along Highway 20 and near Mount Baker.

According to NWS Seattle, eight to 10 inches of snow are expected along Highway 20 near Rainy Pass, while Mount Baker could have one to two additional feet.

“The highest elevations within the Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit counties could receive nearly three feet of snow through Friday morning,” the agency said in its warning—in place until 10 a.m. PST Friday as of reporting.

NWS Spokane warned that above 4,000 feet in Western Okanogan County, including Washington Pass, accumulations could reach up to seven inches.

The NWS advised residents and travelers to prepare for difficult conditions and to keep emergency supplies on hand.

Multiple winter weather advisories are active in Alaska.

For Anchorage and Eagle River, the NWS expects an additional two to four inches of snow, which may result in slick roads and hazardous commutes.

Higher accumulations are forecast for the Interior Kenai Peninsula and Turnagain Pass, which the agency said could receive between eight and 16 inches of snow, with five to 10 inches likely from Hope south to Primrose.

Elsewhere, locales such as Seward, Bear Creek, Whittier, and parts of West Prince William Sound face snow totals in the five to 10 inch range. Blowing snow could lead to “near whiteout conditions” at times, the NWS cautioned.

In Montana, the NWS said northwest Beaverhead County could expect one to four inches of snowfall.

“A period of brief but intense snowfall and gusty winds will occur with the passage of a cold front this morning. Expect quickly changing road conditions and reductions in visibility, especially over Chief Joseph and Big Hole passes,” it said.

What People Are Saying

The National Weather Service forecast office, Great Falls, Montana said on X, Friday: “A cold front passage this morning will bring some quick-hitting precipitation along with gusty winds. Traveling over mountain passes may become hazardous from reductions in visibilities and slick roadways in the morning.”

NWS Anchorage, Alaska said in a post on X, Thursday: “A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the Kenai Peninsula, Turnagain Pass, Whittier, East Turnagain Arm, Girdwood, Portage, Anchorage / Eagle River (all elevations) areas through 6 a.m. Friday. Snow accumulations of 4 to 16″ with wind gusts up to 50 mph are expected.”