Western Washington Icy Patches Possible Saturday Morning Due to Cold Air

While Seattle lowlands likely won't see much snow, isolated icy patches are expected Saturday morning. Mountain passes could be slick.
By Newsroom | Weather, Pacific Northwest |

Lingering Cold, Slippery Surfaces Expected Saturday Morning

Cooler air descends upon western Washington late Friday into Saturday, presenting a lingering threat of isolated icy patches rather than significant lowland snow accumulation. While a brief mix of rain and snow might materialize in scattered pockets as precipitation wanes, ground temperatures are expected to remain too mild for widespread winter white-out conditions, particularly around the 'Seattle metro area'. The real story for wintry weather appears poised for the mountains, where conditions are predicted to deteriorate at higher elevations.

Ground temperatures are too warm for significant lowland snow accumulation, but isolated icy spots are a concern as temperatures drop late Friday night into Saturday morning.

Mountain Travelers Beware

For those venturing into the mountains, updated guidance from the 'National Weather Service office in NWS Seattle' suggests winter driving conditions are a distinct possibility. The precipitation is slated to taper off by Friday evening, with the coldest temperatures anticipated in the hours leading up to and including Saturday morning. Conditions are forecast to gradually improve later on Saturday as temperatures begin their ascent.

Read More: Six People Die in Michigan and Oklahoma Storms on Friday as Tornadoes Destroy Many Wood Homes

Broader Storm Systems Elsewhere

While western Washington appears to be spared the brunt of a major snow event in its populated lowlands, other regions are facing more significant winter storm impacts. Reports indicate a system threatening heavy snow, ice, and "brutal cold" across various areas this weekend. This includes potential disruptions to air travel, with numerous flights canceled or rerouted on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, affecting hubs like 'DFW' and routes between 'Charlotte Douglas International Airport' and 'Chicago O'Hare International Airport'. The threat of extreme cold temperatures is a notable concern in these affected regions, underscoring a varied weather landscape across the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will western Washington see heavy snow on Saturday morning?
No, western Washington lowlands are not expected to see significant snow accumulation. Ground temperatures are too warm. However, there is a chance of isolated icy patches on roads.
Q: What weather should mountain travelers expect in western Washington on Saturday?
Mountain travelers should be prepared for winter driving conditions. The National Weather Service predicts this is a possibility due to cold temperatures and lingering precipitation.
Q: When will the cold air and icy conditions affect western Washington?
The colder air will arrive late Friday and continue into Saturday morning. The coldest temperatures are expected just before and during Saturday morning.
Q: Are other parts of the country facing worse weather this weekend?
Yes, other regions are facing more serious winter storms with heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold. This is causing flight cancellations and travel disruptions in places like DFW and Chicago.