Drivers Face Perilous Conditions as Heavy Snow and Avalanche Threat Loom

WESTERN WASHINGTON — The Cascades are being battered with substantial snowfall on Tuesday morning, rendering roads perilous for motorists.

Motorists attempting to navigate Snoqualmie Pass on Christmas Day faced significant snowfall, congestion, and numerous travel limitations. The pass has reopened after a temporary closure on Christmas Day due to spinouts and accidents.

On Tuesday morning, compact snow and ice are present on Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass. Beginning at milepost 47, all vehicles are required to use chains, and even if your vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive, you are legally obligated to have a set of chains in your car during winter travel.

Failure to have chains could result in a $500 fine.

A winter storm warning is in effect in the Cascades above 3,500 feet until 10 a.m., predicting an additional 6 to 18 inches of snowfall, so motorists may want to postpone their journeys over mountain passes until later on Tuesday.

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Additionally, there is an avalanche alert in effect for Stevens and Snoqualmie Passes, the backcountry regions of the western slopes of the Washington Cascades, and Mt Hood.

Obtain the most recent pass conditions from the Washington State Department of Transportation.