Western Washington braces for wind, rain and hazardous Cascade travel through Thursday A winter storm warning has been issued for the Cascade Mountains as heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected to impact the region through Thursday. The storm system, driven by an atmospheric river, is set to bring significant precipitation, with snow levels remaining near pass elevations rather than dropping significantly. This contrasts with earlier storms in December, which saw snowfall extend to lower elevations. Snowfall in the mountains is expected to intensify later Wednesday, with an additional 1 to 2 feet of snow projected in the next 24 hours. A blizzard warning has been issued for parts of the Cascades and Olympics from 6 p.m. Wednesday to 5 a.m. Thursday, as winds could exceed 60 mph near mountain peaks. Travel across the Cascades is expected to be hazardous during this period. In the lowlands, periods of cool March rain are anticipated on Wednesday, with damp conditions likely to affect morning and evening commutes. High temperatures in the metro area are projected to reach about 50 degrees, close to normal for this time of year. The storm system will bring gusty winds to the region, with southerly winds of 30 to 50 mph and gusts up to 55 mph expected across Western Washington. Strongest winds between Kitsap and King counties are anticipated between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. Wednesday. A wind advisory is in effect, and gusty conditions could lead to tree damage and power outages. As the storm moves east, winds will shift to the west in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the San Juan Islands, with gusts of 40 to 55 mph possible in areas such as Oak Harbor, Port Angeles, and Anacortes. By Thursday, winds are expected to ease, but rain in the lowlands and snow in the mountains will continue.#cascades #atlantic_river #mountain_peaks #strait_of_juan_de_fuca #san_juan_islands
