Winter Storm Warnings Issued for Cascades and Northern Blue Mountains

Winter storm warnings highlight expected snowfall of 7-15 inches in higher elevations of the Cascades and Blue Mountains. Snow levels currently at 4,000 feet are predicted to rise overnight. Hazardous travel conditions are anticipated through Monday, with additional precipitation expected later in the week.

Winter storm warnings have been issued for elevations above 3,500 feet in the northern Cascades and Northern Blue Mountains, effective from 1 AM Sunday to 4 AM Monday. Weather forecasts predict significant snowfall and reduced visibility, leading to hazardous driving conditions. Snow accumulations are expected to range from 7 to 15 inches in the Cascades and 10 to 15 inches in the Blues.

Presently, snow levels are recorded at approximately 4,000 feet, slightly lower than earlier predictions of 4,500 feet, which has important implications for weather forecasting. Notably, populated areas close to Highway 97, such as La Pine and Lava Butte, are at this elevation, with La Pine reporting three inches of fresh snowfall.

As the storm system progresses, snow levels are anticipated to rise overnight to approximately 5,500 to 6,000 feet. Winter Storm Warnings are in place for the eastern slopes of the WA/OR Cascades and Northern Blue Mountains, continuing into Monday morning. A cold air mass will accompany this system, leading to brief increases in snow levels, influenced by the passage of a shortwave trough and a surface cold front.

Following Monday afternoon, snow activity will diminish as the upper trough moves eastward; however, widespread precipitation is still expected due to several shortwaves traversing the area. Precipitation is forecasted to begin from late Wednesday into Thursday, though periods of dense fog and low cloud cover are not anticipated at this time, except for patchy fog during heavier rainfall periods.

The following temperatures are predicted:
– TRI-CITIES: Sunday: 46°F/38°F, Monday: 47°F/32°F, Tuesday: 40°F/32°F, Wednesday: 39°F/34°F, Thursday: 41°F/35°F, Friday: 44°F/40°F, Saturday: 46°F/33°F.
– YAKIMA: Sunday: 43°F/29°F, Monday: 43°F/25°F, Tuesday: 37°F/28°F, Wednesday: 36°F/30°F, Thursday: 38°F/32°F, Friday: 41°F/34°F, Saturday: 42°F/24°F.

Weather conditions in the mountainous regions can be volatile and unpredictable, particularly during winter months. Elevated areas often experience heavy snowfall, which can impact travel and safety. The phenomenon of snow level variation significantly affects local forecasts, influencing precipitation types and accumulation rates. Keeping abreast of weather warnings and understanding the implications of snow levels is crucial for residents and travelers in these regions, particularly when severe weather conditions are anticipated.

In summary, winter storm warnings are active for higher elevations in the northern Cascades and Northern Blue Mountains, with significant snowfall expected. With current snow levels at around 4,000 feet and an increase predicted overnight, drivers are urged to exercise caution. The weather pattern also indicates a transition to milder conditions post-storm, though additional precipitation is anticipated later in the week. Local temperature forecasts provide further insight into daily conditions.

Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com