EVERETT, MARCH 14: A series of Pacific weather systems promises periods of rain across the North Sound this weekend with plenty of snow in the mountains.
Friday will involve scattered showers with some sunbreaks at times in the wake of an earlier weather system. Then, a pair of systems are expected to move ashore with rain at times both Saturday and Sunday. Total rain amounts should be from a half inch to just over an inch. Breezy conditions are anticipated as well Saturday with wind speeds up to 30 mph.
This is a cool weather pattern and high temperatures will be about 5 degrees cooler than mid-March averages. Highs through the weekend are forecast to range from the mid-40s to lower 50s, and lows in the mid-30s to lower 40s.
The cool soggy weather pattern will also produce more much needed snow in the mountains. The current mountain snowpack is below average, with the North and Central Cascades at about 75 to 100 percent of normal. The water equivalent in the snowpack ranges from only 60 to 75 percent of average.
The Mountains
Mountain snow totals this weekend will likely pile up one to two feet of fresh snow. Motorists heading into the Cascades for fun in the snow, or crossing over into Eastern Washington need to be prepared for hazardous winter weather driving conditions with snow coming down heavy at times. Carry chains (state law) and be ready to use them if required. Snow levels will be below the passes including Snoqualmie and Stevens passes, hovering between 1500 and 2500 feet.
The new snow will also elevate the threat of avalanches. Those heading into the back country for skiing or on snow mobiles need to use the buddy system, avoid avalanche prone areas, and have personal emergency signal devices at hand. Be sure to check the latest avalanche conditions from the Northwest Avalanche Center at https://nwac.us/
Many have outdoor plans this weekend. Just be prepared for soggy cool weather conditions. Saturday March 15th is the Ides of March and the weather will likely feel like it.
For more forecast updates, visit the Everett Post Weather page here.
