Hey there, everyone. Let's talk about the winter weather that's rolling in, because this isn't just your average snowstorm. It's shaping up to be a major event across several states, and it's important to stay informed and prepared. As we dive into the details, I want to make sure you understand the risks and what you can do to stay safe.
Severe Weather Alerts: Blizzard and Winter Storm Warnings
Listen up, because this is serious stuff. Visibility could plummet below a quarter of a mile due to falling and blowing snow. That means driving conditions could become downright treacherous. The upper slopes of the Cascades have been placed under a blizzard warning, while the lower slopes are under a winter storm warning. This distinction is key because it tells us the severity of the conditions at different elevations.
Mountain Highway and Pass Reports
Alright, let's break it down. The Washington State Department of Transportation is keeping a close eye on the mountain highways and passes. If you're planning to travel through these areas, you need to check the latest updates. The Portland National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm warning for the western foothills of the northern and central Oregon Cascades, with heavy snow expected starting at 4 p.m. This isn't something to take lightly—feet of snow could accumulate in some areas.
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Winter Storm Gerri: A Powerful Force
Winter Storm Gerri has arrived with a vengeance, prompting blizzard warnings in the Cascades. This storm is no joke. Following the initial winter storm warning, a blizzard warning will take effect and last through Wednesday morning. During this period, wind speeds could exceed 60 mph, and the Cascades could receive up to 4 feet of snow. Meanwhile, the Olympics might see between 2 and 3 feet of snow. That's a lot of powder, but it also means dangerous conditions for anyone venturing outside.
Preparation is Key
We've all heard the saying, "better safe than sorry," and it couldn't ring truer right now. Breezy to windy conditions with southerly to southwesterly winds are expected across the region. A winter storm watch has been issued for the Cascades in Oregon and Washington starting Thursday night. For Washington State, a winter storm warning is in effect for the Cascade Mountains in Whatcom, Skagit, Pierce, and Lewis counties, starting at 5 p.m. Monday, April 7, and ending at 5 p.m. the following day.
Significant Avalanche Risks
Here's the thing: significant new snow, strong winds, and a weak snowpack combined with a busy weekend in the backcountry could lead to hazardous avalanche risks. The warning is in effect until 6 p.m., so if you're planning a trip to the mountains, reconsider. Safety should always come first.
Travel Woes
Travel over the passes will become extremely difficult as feet of fresh snow accumulate. Further west, the North Oregon Coast Range and South Washington Cascades are also facing hazardous conditions. A winter storm warning is in effect until 4 a.m. PST Sunday, with snow accumulations expected to reach significant levels. Some areas have already suffered from whiteout conditions during blizzards, and more storms are on the way.
Stay Prepared
Winter storm watches are issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm event, such as heavy sleet, heavy snow, ice storms, heavy snow and blowing snow, or a combination of these events. Wind chill watches are issued when there's the potential for a combination of extremely cold air and strong winds to create dangerously low wind chill. The warnings follow a series of similar NWS alerts recently as winter tightens its grip across the U.S.
Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including items such as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets, and extra clothing. The National Weather Service advises that being prepared could save your life if you get stranded in these conditions.
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Impact on Oregon and Washington
Oregon faces widespread disruptions as winter storm warnings cover several southeastern counties, extending into parts of Northern California. Washington is currently subject to two winter storm warnings. One for Okanogan County predicts additional snowfall of around 8 inches throughout Thursday afternoon, which is likely to impact travel on state roads. A road closure due to flooding in Louisville, Kentucky, serves as a reminder of the widespread effects of severe weather.
Final Thoughts
As we brace for this winter storm, remember that preparation is your best defense. Stay informed, check the latest updates, and make smart decisions about travel and outdoor activities. This storm has the potential to cause significant disruptions, so let's take it seriously and keep each other safe. Stay warm, stay alert, and we'll get through this together.
