A winter weather system is expected to bring challenging travel conditions to North Central Washington this weekend, with forecasters warning of a wintry mix including freezing rain, snow, and ice pellets across the region.
Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Spokane predict the Chelan and Wenatchee Valleys and surrounding areas face the highest risk, with a 30-50% chance of freezing rain tonight and tomorrow.
"Some roads could become slick where untreated," the Weather Service stated in its briefing. "Precipitation will come in many forms including rain, snow, ice pellets, and freezing rain."
The forecast shows both Stevens Pass and Blewett Pass could see increased snow accumulation.
Weather Service maps indicate snowfall is expected to intensify across these mountain routes as the system progresses.
Specific communities face varying risks, with Chelan receiving up to one-tenth of an inch or more of freezing rain. The wintry mix is expected to give way to scattered snow showers by Saturday evening, continuing into Sunday.
While forecasters note that "significant ice or snow accumulations are not expected," they emphasize that travel could be impacted, particularly Saturday morning.
The Weather Service adds that the current weather pattern is expected to begin easing Sunday, with scattered snow showers possible through Monday.
The Washington State Department of Transportation offers real-time mountain pass and winter travel conditions here.
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