‘Significant snowfall’ in May? NWS issues special statement
May 15, 2017, 6:57 AM | Updated: 4:54 pm
The National Weather Service is warning “significant snowfall” is possible in the Cascades and Olympics starting Monday evening.
RELATED: Check the mountain pass webcams
An “unseasonably strong and cool low-pressure system” has the potential to bring snow to the mountain ranges, according to the Weather Service.
Elevations above 5,000 feet will receive the most snow — up to a foot or more by Tuesday afternoon. However, higher passes, such as Stevens, will also see some snow. Some ski resorts could receive up to 10 inches.
A Special Weather Statement issued by the Weather Service says the Cascades of King, Lewis, Pierce, and Snohomish counties will get hit.
KIRO 7 Meteorologist Nick Allard says White Pass could get a few inches. Stevens could see 5-6 inches, while Rainier may get up to a foot of snow. Snoqualmie Pass will most likely just see rain.
The National Weather Service warned hikers and backcountry travelers to plan for snow, wind, poor visibility, and temperatures near freezing.
Rain is expected in the lowlands Monday through Tuesday. The Puget Sound region will start warming up again Wednesday.
