Winter Storm Warning Issued for Upper Slopes of Eastern Washington Cascades Crest

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Pendleton, OR, has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the region, which will follow a currently active Winter Weather Advisory. The alert indicates a high probability of severe winter weather conditions that will significantly impact the area.

Affected Areas

The warning and advisory are specifically in effect for the Upper Slopes of the Eastern Washington Cascades Crest. This includes geographic zones identified under code WAZ522.

What You Should Do

Authorities strongly advise persons in the affected area to consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and ensure your vehicle is equipped with a winter storm kit. This kit should include tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit.

Additionally, residents are warned not to touch downed power lines and to report any outages to their electric company. Travel is highly discouraged due to slick roadways and the possibility of downed trees and power lines.

Expected Conditions

• Snow Accumulation: The initial Winter Weather Advisory period will see additional snow between 2 and 6 inches. The subsequent Winter Storm Warning is expected to bring heavy snow with total accumulations between 1 and 3 feet.
• Wind: Gusts up to 30 mph are expected through today. During the peak of the storm, from 11 p.m. Wednesday to 5 p.m. Thursday, wind gusts could reach 35 mph.
• Visibility and Hazards: Heavy snowfall and very low visibility will create extremely dangerous driving conditions. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches.
• Additional Details: A lull in snowfall is expected late Wednesday morning through early Thursday morning as snow levels rise, potentially bringing a wintry mix or rain before heavy snow returns to pass-levels on Thursday.

Timeline

• Winter Weather Advisory: In effect until 8:00 AM PDT Tuesday, March 10.
• Winter Storm Warning: In effect from 5:00 PM PDT Tuesday, March 10, until 5:00 AM PDT Friday, March 13.