Winter storm warnings are in effect for the northern Cascades and Northern Blue Mountains from 1 AM Sunday to 4 AM Monday, predicting snowfall of 7-15 inches in the Cascades and 10-15 inches in the Blue Mountains. Current snow levels at around 4,000 feet may rise overnight, with additional precipitation expected late Wednesday into Thursday. Hazards include low visibility and challenging driving conditions due to heavy snowfall.
Winter storm warnings are in effect from 1 AM on Sunday until 4 AM on Monday for elevations above 3,500 feet in the northern Cascades and the Northern Blue Mountains. Forecasts predict significant snowfall ranging from 7 to 15 inches in the Cascades and 10 to 15 inches in the Blue Mountains, alongside low visibility leading to hazardous driving conditions. Snow levels are currently around 4,000 feet, slightly lower than initial forecasts of 4,500 feet. This discrepancy has implications for areas with higher populations, particularly along Highway 97, where localities like La Pine and Lava Butte are observed to have received approximately 3 inches of new snow.
The snow levels are expected to rise to between 5,500 and 6,000 feet overnight. As the cold air moves in behind a shortwave trough and surface cold front, the warning primarily affects the eastern slopes of the Washington-Oregon Cascades and the northern Blue Mountains, with conditions likely to stabilize by Monday afternoon as the upper trough moves eastward. Despite an impending ridge over the region, forecasts indicate that several shortwaves will lead to periods of widespread precipitation, particularly late Wednesday into Thursday. Fog and low cloud cover is not anticipated due to the active weather pattern, although patchy fog may develop during the heaviest rainfall periods.
The article discusses winter storm warnings issued for specific mountainous regions in the northern Cascades and the Northern Blue Mountains, highlighting the expected heavy snowfall and potential difficulties for drivers due to reduced visibility. The variations in projected snow levels and their implications for local areas are also noted, alongside weather patterns that may bring further precipitation in subsequent days. This information is crucial for residents and travelers in the affected regions, as it informs them of the anticipated weather challenges. The forecasts serve both to prepare the community and alert them to potential hazards associated with winter weather conditions.
In conclusion, the winter storm warnings underscore the challenges expected in the northern Cascades and Blue Mountains due to significant snowfall and adverse conditions. The rising snow levels and variations in snowfall forecasts necessitate caution among residents and travelers. As the weather pattern evolves, further precipitation is anticipated later in the week, highlighting the need for continued awareness of winter conditions in these mountainous areas.
Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com
