NORTH SOUND, MARCH 9: Better late than never! More typical winter-like weather is in store this week with lowland rain and mountain snow in the North Sound, along with blustery conditions and even the threat of a thunderstorm.
A strong air flow aloft called the Jetstream at roughly 30,000 feet will be pouring cold unstable air from the Gulf of Alaska region into the North Sound through the week. This weather pattern will generate showers in the lowlands with rain totals ranging from a half inch to more than 2 inches, and plenty of snow in the mountains.
Low Snow Levels
Snow levels are expected to vary from as low as 500 feet through Tuesday, to as high as about 3000 feet on Wednesday before dropping to around 2000 feet the rest of the week. The lower snow levels early this week will likely result in a mix of rain and snow in some North Sound locations during overnights and morning hours. Some spots may receive light snow accumulations on grassy surfaces and rooftops.
Amassing Mountain Snow – Rising Avalanche Conditions
The real snow accumulations will be in the mountains. During the week, upwards of 2 to 4 feet of snow are expected. For drivers going over the mountain pass highways, expect hazardous winter driving conditions.
Per state law, always carry chains and be prepared to use them if directed to do so. Otherwise, ensure your vehicle has winter weather resources, such as extra food, water, a snow shovel, traction sources like kitty litter or sand on board, and flashlights with extra batteries. Also be prepared in case highway crews need to hold traffic for avalanche control.
This late winter surge in mountain snow will also create rising avalanche conditions. Monitor the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center for the latest forecasts and conditions before heading out into the backcountry.
Wanted – More Mountain Snow
Early this month, the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center reported snow depths in the Olympics and Cascades were averaging only about 35 to 65 percent of normal. This week’s mountain snows will help cut into this snow deficit, yet even more is needed to attempt to reach average. April 1st is usually when the mountain snowpack reaches its peak for the season.
The new snow is welcome news given the current mountain snow deficit. This surge in mountain snows will also help with the region’s water supply heading into summer and early fall, particularly for agriculture, power generation, recreation and fish, and drinking water.
The need for more mountain snow is at a critical point. According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the amount of water in the snowpack this past weekend was only about 35 to 45 percent of average, with the exception of the North Cascades at close to 75 percent of average.
Blustery and Cooler Than Average Temperatures This Week
In the lowlands, temperatures this week will be cooler than mid-March averages. High temperatures will struggle into the 40s and lows are expected to range from the 30s to lower 40s. Average high temperatures are in lower 50s this week.
This active weather pattern is also anticipated to generate blustery conditions at times this week. The strongest winds are expected in the north interior from about Whidbey Island northward, peaking Wednesday with gusts up as high as 50 mph. Isolated power outages are possible.
This cooler more winter-like weather pattern is expected to extend into the coming weekend as well. Beyond that, the latest 8 to 14 day outlook through next week reflects good odds on above average temperatures and precipitation.
March is feeling like a lion. Will it go out a lamb, as the phrase that dates back to the early 18th century goes? The latest weather outlook for the rest of the month shows odds tipping toward warmer than average temperatures and around average precipitation. So perhaps the month will finish more like a lamb.
