“Navigating Danger: Travel Chaos as Heavy Snow and Avalanche Risks Loom”

WESTERN WASHINGTON — The Cascades are currently being battered by intense snowfall on Thursday, rendering roads hazardous for motorists.

Earlier on Thursday, the eastbound lane of Interstate 90, located five miles west of the summit near Denny Creek, faced closure due to spinouts and accidents. It resumed operations approximately 40 minutes later.

Travelers trying to cross Snoqualmie Pass on Christmas Day encountered significant snowfall, heavy traffic, and numerous travel limitations. The pass was also temporarily shut down on Christmas Day due to spinouts and collisions.

Early Thursday, there was a mix of compact snow and ice on Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass. Beginning at milepost 47, chains are mandatory for all vehicles, and even those with all-wheel drive are legally required to possess a set of chains in their vehicle during winter travel.

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

A winter storm alert for the Cascades at elevations of 3,500 feet and above is active until 10 p.m., with an anticipated 6 to 18 inches of additional snowfall accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 55 mph. Travel challenges are anticipated during the first half of the day, according to KOMO News Meteorologist George Waldenberger.

A winter storm alert for the Olympics at elevations of 4,000 feet and above is in place until 4 p.m., as forecasted conditions expect an additional 4 to 8 inches of snow with wind gusts reaching 65 mph.

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Additionally, there is an avalanche alert in effect until 6 p.m. around Stevens and Snoqualmie passes, the backcountry regions on the western slopes of the Washington Cascades, and Mt Hood.

Access the latest pass updates from the Washington State Department of Transportation.