A pair of storms moving across Washington and Oregon will bring more snow, cooler temperatures and icy winds across the region, making travel difficult.
The National Weather Service in Pendleton, Oregon, predicts heavy snowfall through Saturday across much of south central and southeast Washington and eastern Oregon.
The possibility of more snow, wind and cold temperatures in the Yakima Valley will continue into next week, the seven-day forecast indicates.
The first wave of snow is forecast until Friday afternoon. Another round will be from Friday to Saturday afternoon. More snow is expected in the second snowfall at 3-4 inches in Yakima, and much more in the Cascades Mountains.
Authorities issued a winter storm watch Thursday on the eastern slopes of the Cascades Mountains of Washington and Oregon. The warning is in effect until Saturday at 4 p.m.
Heavy snow is expected on the eastern slopes of the Cascades through Friday, with snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches and up to 18 inches above 5,000 feet. 8 to 15 inches are forecast Friday night through Saturday in Washington’s Cascades Mountains, forecasters reported.
Low temperatures on Friday, Saturday and Sunday night will be below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (between -7 degrees Celsius) and above 20 on Monday, predicts the National Weather Service.
Cold winds of almost freezing are expected, and drafts can cause snow to blow and lose visibility.
Travel could be very difficult or impossible, as travel in the passes and portions of Interstate 90 is being affected. On Thursday the authorities were already reporting vehicle accidents. People who must travel should carry an extra flashlight, food and water in their vehicle in case of emergency.
In Oregon, a winter storm watch was issued for Portland, Vancouver and areas with a Columbia River snow storm warning east of Portland. Forecasters are forecasting 2 to 6 inches of snow Thursday in the Portland and Vancouver, Washington areas, and possible freezing rain west and south of Portland.
Seattle could have snow too.
– The Associated Press agency contributed to this story.
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