Winter weather taking hold on Washington passes
Nov 12, 2012, 11:13 AM | Updated: 1:42 pm
Stevens Pass Mountain Resort measured the snow at 1 foot on Monday. (Image courtesy Stevens Pass Mountain Resort Facebook)
(Image courtesy Stevens Pass Mountain Resort Facebook)
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Winter weather conditions are starting to take hold on Washington passes.
A winter weather advisory was issued over the weekend for the Cascade range as snow accumulations of 8 to 15 inches were experienced during a 15-hour period.
Pass cams at Snoqualmie, Stevens, and White Pass all show snow on the ground.
The Stevens Pass Snow Report says “It’s is definitely winter weather,” with around a foot of snow on the ground Monday morning. Snoqualmie got around nine inches in the last 24 hours.
Traction tires are currently required on Stevens Pass, as drivers over Snoqualmie and White Pass face a traction tire advisory.
The Washington State Patrol took the opportunity to tweet a reminder to drivers of just what kind of wheels qualify.
Traction tires must have at least an eighth an inch of tread, and be labeled M&S, All Season, or have a Mountain/Snowflake symbol.
The Washington State Department of Transportation says beyond traction tires, there are several more things drivers should do to prepare.
WSDOT says it’s important to do a winter maintenance check of vehicles, including examination of wipers, lights, brakes, batteries, and general health of the vehicle. They also recommend keeping vehicles above a half a tank of gas to avoid getting stranded.
A winter survival pack in the vehicle is also recommended. WSDOT has created a full list (PDF) of items they suggest be packed in any vehicle out for a winter drive. For more winter driving tips visit WSDOT’s winter driving page.
