Heavy snow forecast in parts of western WA, travel could be ‘very difficult to impossible’
Jan 8, 2026, 5:31 AM | Updated: 6:13 am
Snow falls on an empty parking area outside a supermarket. (Photo: Kena Betancur, Getty Images)
(Photo: Kena Betancur, Getty Images)
A cold weather system is making its way through western Washington this week, with heavy snowfall up to 18 inches in the mountains and winds as high as 35 mph expected in several counties.
As a result of the impending cold front, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a winter storm warning for several Washington counties on Wednesday, which will remain in effect until 4 p.m. Thursday.
The storm is expected to impact the Cascades of Snohomish, King, Whatcom, Skagit, Pierce, and Lewis counties.
The weather system could make travel “very difficult to impossible” in certain areas, with hazardous conditions potentially affecting Wednesday evening commutes.
“If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency, and check road conditions before departing. Prepare for possible power outages,” NWS stated.
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Rain showers, wind gusts forecasted for Seattle
In Seattle, rain and snow showers are likely through Wednesday night and into Thursday morning, with a low of 35 degrees.
South to southwest winds from 11 to 14 mph are expected on Wednesday afternoon, with gusts as high as 21 mph.
On Thursday morning, there is a 70% chance of rain mixed with snow showers, which will turn into all rain after 10 a.m.
Little to no snow accumulation is expected from Wednesday through Thursday.
Bellingham sees snow stick on I-5
Snow was falling in Bellingham on Wednesday just before 8 a.m., due to a fierce storm coming down from British Columbia, bringing heavy snow to the mountains, and rain and gusty winds to the lowlands of Whatcom County. A wind advisory was in effect for the county from 4 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday.
The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for areas 2,000-3,000 feet in elevation, while also stating the Mount Baker wilderness could receive two to four feet of snow.
Lookie, lookie. It’s snowing an sticking on I-5 south of Bellingham. @wsdot_traffic pic.twitter.com/jdOpAzVZFe
— KIRO Newsradio Traffic (@KIROTraffic) January 7, 2026
Up to 10 inches of snow forecasted in Chelan County
In western Chelan County, a winter storm warning was issued at approximately 10 a.m. Wednesday, and will remain in effect until 4 p.m. Thursday for Stevens Pass, Stehekin, and Holden Village.
Heavy snow is expected, with snow accumulations between five and 10 inches, and nearly one foot in the higher mountains. Additionally, Chelan County can expect wind gusts as high as 30 mph.
NWS noted that travel will be very difficult, and winter driving conditions will impact Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes.
High Surf Advisory issued for northern WA Coast
A High Surf Advisory remains in effect in the northern Washington Coast and Grays Harbor County Coast zones until 10 a.m. Thursday.
“Large breaking waves and sneaker waves can knock people off their feet, move driftwood and debris, and crash over rocks and jetties,” NWS stated in its advisory.
NWS noted that the largest waves are expected to occur late Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday morning.
People can be injured or drowned while observing the ocean in these areas. Localized beach and coastal erosion is expected.
“Never turn your back on the ocean, and keep children and pets close. Know the tides and forecast conditions. Follow warning signs and respect barriers,” NWS stated.
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