The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Blizzard Warning and multiple Winter Storm Alerts across Washington’s mountain regions, warning that travel through the Cascades and Olympic Mountains could become very difficult or even impossible through mid-week and into Friday.

Blizzard Conditions Expected in the Cascades and Olympics

According to the National Weather Service, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect from Tuesday evening through late Wednesday night, with snowfall totals reaching 2 to 4 feet in some mountain areas. Winds could gust between 40 and 50 mph, creating dangerous whiteout conditions and blowing snow.

Areas under the strongest warnings include:

• Olympic Mountains, including Mount Olympus and Hurricane Ridge
• Cascade Passes, including Snoqualmie Pass, Stevens Pass, White Pass, and Crystal Mountain
• Mountain communities near Mount Rainier, Ashford, Greenwater, and Longmire

The storm is expected to evolve in phases:

Tuesday

• Winter Weather Advisories bring 6–10 inches of new snow in some areas.

Tuesday Evening – Wednesday Night

• Blizzard conditions develop, with heavy snow and strong winds reducing visibility to one-quarter mile or less.

Wednesday Night – Friday

• A Winter Storm Watch warns that additional snow could push totals up to 4 feet in higher elevations.

Travel Could Become Impossible

Officials warn that snow-covered roads, blowing snow, and falling tree branches could lead to temporary road closures and long delays across mountain passes.

The National Weather Service advises residents and travelers to:

• Avoid mountain travel unless it is absolutely necessary
• Carry winter survival kits in vehicles
• Keep extra food, water, and flashlights in case of becoming stranded
• Prepare for possible power outages from heavy snow and strong winds

If drivers become stranded during the storm, emergency officials recommend staying with the vehicle, which provides shelter and helps rescuers locate stranded travelers.

Snow Levels May Fluctuate

Meteorologists note that snow levels could briefly rise Wednesday, causing some lower elevations near Snoqualmie Pass to transition to rain before colder air returns Thursday and snow levels drop again.

This could create slushy or icy road conditions, further complicating travel across mountain highways.

Monitor Road Conditions Before Traveling

Anyone planning travel through Washington’s mountain passes should check real-time conditions before leaving home.

For guidance on checking highways, closures, and winter driving safety tips, see:
Surfside Washington News – Road Conditions Travel Guide:
https://surfsidewa.com/2026/02/17/checking-road-conditions-in-oregon-and-washington-a-travelers-guide/

Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts and travel advisories from the National Weather Service and Washington State Department of Transportation as the storm develops.