The National Weather Service has released an updated forecast stating that shower activity will diminish by Tuesday, paving the way for a strong frontal system forecasted to sweep across western Washington on Wednesday. This system is expected to bring widespread rain and snow, accompanied by gusty winds in some areas, which will persist until late Thursday.
Today, as scattered showers move eastward, the region will experience the development of weak high pressure, leading to a drying out of conditions in the lowlands. However, the Cascades are expected to still have lingering snow showers. The snow levels are estimated to be around 3,500 to 4,000 feet, which could result in an additional inch or two of snow at higher elevations, including mountain passes.
On Wednesday, a cold front will move inland, resulting in cooler temperatures and more rain. The Olympic Peninsula will experience the greatest amount of precipitation in the morning. Along the coast, wind gusts could reach speeds of 25 to 30 mph. As the day progresses, the region will become more saturated with moisture, creating a chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms that will persist into Wednesday night and possibly continue into Thursday.
The low-pressure system will continue to advance, maintaining snow levels at a steady rate. Higher elevations in the Cascades and Olympics are anticipated to receive a significant amount of snow, ranging from 6 to 12 inches. According to forecast models, there is a moderate 50% chance of experiencing at least 6 inches of snowfall through Stevens Pass by Thursday morning. In the lowlands, rainfall is expected to accumulate up to three-quarters of an inch by the end of the storm.
