🕒 Last updated on November 6, 2025
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Alert for parts of Washington State, warning residents and travelers to prepare for up to 12 inches of snow between Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning. The storm is expected to bring hazardous travel conditions, especially during morning and evening commutes on Wednesday and Thursday.
The advisory includes the Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit Counties and Western Okanogan County. In the Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit Counties, snow accumulations between 6 to 12 inches are expected along the Cascade Crest and the highest points of Highway 20. The most difficult travel periods are predicted from Wednesday evening through Thursday morning, and again Thursday night, when snowfall will be heaviest.
In Western Okanogan County, areas above 4,000 feet could see up to 15 inches of snow, with the highest amounts near Washington Pass. By 4 p.m. Wednesday, up to five inches of snow could already be on the ground, and the NWS expects snowfall rates around one inch per hour overnight on Wednesday and Thursday.
The agency warns that travel could be very difficult to impossible in certain areas and advises residents to prepare for possible power outages as heavy snow could weigh down tree branches and power lines.
Officials Urge Residents to Stay Safe
Local paper The Olympian reports that weather-related vehicle crashes cause over 6,000 deaths nationwide each year, underscoring the dangers of driving in snowy and icy conditions. Authorities are urging people to take this storm seriously and to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
Clay and Platte counties experience severe storms with hail and high wind gusts
The NWS cautions travelers that roads will be slick and visibility reduced, especially in mountain passes. Drivers are asked to check the latest road and weather updates before traveling and to allow extra time for their journeys.
If travel is unavoidable, officials recommend carrying an emergency kit that includes:
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Windshield scraper
- Jumper cables and tow rope
- Shovel and sand or cat litter for traction
- Warm clothing, blankets, and gloves
- Nonperishable food and bottled water
- Cell phone charger
These items can help travelers stay safe if they get stranded or delayed.
The NWS also reminds residents to ensure that homes, offices, and farms are stocked with necessary supplies. Families should have enough food, water, and heating options to last through any potential power outages. Pet owners and farmers are encouraged to make sure animals have shelter, food, and water throughout the storm.
The agency’s advisory states, “Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact travelers along Highway 20 from Wednesday evening through Thursday morning, as well as Thursday night.” It adds, “Make sure your home, office, and vehicles are stocked with the supplies you might need. Make sure farm animals and pets also have the essentials they will need.”
Snowstorm traps nearly 1,000 trekkers on Mount Everest, massive rescue underway
Areas Covered Under the Winter Weather Advisory
The Winter Weather Advisory will remain in effect until Friday at 10 a.m. (PST). The affected regions include:
- Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit Counties – Expected snow accumulations between 6 to 12 inches along the Cascade Crest and Highway 20. The most difficult travel times are forecast for Wednesday evening through Thursday morning and Thursday night.
- Western Okanogan County – Areas above 4,000 feet, including Washington Pass, could receive up to 15 inches of snow. Around five inches may fall by Wednesday afternoon, with snowfall rates of about an inch per hour overnight on Wednesday and Thursday.
The NWS continues to warn that travel could be hazardous, particularly in mountain regions. Residents and travelers are urged to stay alert, monitor NWS forecasts, and check updates from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) for real-time road and hazard information.
The advisory emphasizes that snow will continue through Friday morning, creating dangerous driving conditions across high elevations. Authorities encourage everyone in the affected areas to use extreme caution and stay informed as the storm progresses.