Winter Storm Warnings for Northern Cascades and Blue Mountains

A winter storm warning has been issued from 1 AM Sunday to 4 AM Monday for elevations above 3,500 feet in the northern Cascades and Northern Blue Mountains. Expect significant snowfall with difficult driving conditions. Snow levels will rise to 5,500-6,000 feet overnight, leading to potential widespread precipitation later in the week.

Winter storm warnings have been issued for the northern Cascades and Northern Blue Mountains, effective from 1 AM on Sunday until 4 AM on Monday, specifically for elevations above 3,500 feet. Substantial snowfall is anticipated, with the Cascades expecting between 7 to 15 inches, while the Blue Mountains may receive 10 to 15 inches. Conditions will be perilous for drivers due to limited visibility caused by heavy snowfall. Recent reports indicate that snow levels are currently around 4,000 feet, slightly lower than previous forecasts of 4,500 feet. Many populated areas like La Pine and Lava Butte fall within this snow level zone, and current reports show that La Pine has already received 3 inches of fresh snow.

Overnight, snow levels are predicted to rise to approximately 5,500 to 6,000 feet, although this increase will be short-lived due to cold air advection associated with an incoming shortwave trough and surface cold front moving through the region on Sunday afternoon. The development of surface high pressure behind this front will lead to breezy to windy conditions. By Monday afternoon, this upper-level trough will clear the vicinity, resulting in a decline in snow shower activity. Although an upper-level ridge may dominate the weather pattern, periodic widespread precipitation is still expected as several shortwave disturbances move across the ridge, with the first significant round anticipated late Wednesday into Thursday.

Currently, the forecast for the Tri-Cities indicates high temperatures ranging from 46°F to 47°F on Sunday and Monday, respectively, with minimum temperatures dropping to 32°F. In Yakima, similar weather is predicted, with Sunday temperatures reaching 43°F and Monday temperatures at 43°F, but with minimums dropping to 25°F overnight.

In the context of severe weather alerts, this article focuses on the impending winter storm set to impact the northern Cascades and the northern Blue Mountains. With significant snowfall expected in higher elevations, the National Weather Service has issued warnings that highlight the dangers posed to drivers, including low visibility and treacherous road conditions. The variability in snow levels and the potential for abrupt changes in weather due to shortwave troughs and high-pressure systems are critical elements of the forecast that affect preparation and safety measures for residents and travelers in the affected areas.

In summary, a winter storm warning is in effect for the northern Cascades and the northern Blue Mountains, presenting serious snowfall and visibility challenges for drivers. The forecast indicates significant snowfall accumulation over the weekend and into early next week, with the possibility of continued precipitation despite a ridge of high pressure. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and exercise caution during hazardous travel periods in the region.

Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com