Key Takeaways
- Three weather disturbances will affect western Washington in the three days leading up to Christmas
- Each system will bring a mix of lowland rain, mountain snow, and gusty winds
- Travel conditions over mountain passes, including Snoqualmie, will be slippery due to snow and ice
- Winds are expected to be strong, with gusts reaching up to 50+ mph on Christmas Eve
- Weather is expected to quiet down by Friday afternoon and Saturday, making it easier to drive home
Introduction to the Holiday Travel Rush
The holiday travel rush is about to begin, with just three days left until Christmas. Western Washington can expect three weather disturbances to swing through the region, each bringing its own unique blend of weather conditions. The first system is expected to arrive on Monday, with showers building during the afternoon and evening, bringing 1/4" to 1/2" of rain. Snow will also start to fall over the Cascades on Monday evening, making travel conditions over mountain passes, including Snoqualmie, potentially slippery by Monday night and Tuesday morning.
Monday’s Weather Conditions
Monday’s weather is expected to be gusty, with winds already picking up on North Whidbey Island, reaching gusts of 40 mph before noon. The afternoon will see gusty conditions over the islands, the coast, and around Bellingham and Mount Vernon. However, the showers and wind are expected to break up overnight, leading to a brief pause in the storm systems on Tuesday. This could be a good opportunity for travelers to get on the road or cross the mountain passes, as conditions are expected to be relatively calm during the evening.
The Second System Builds
The second system is expected to build overnight into Wednesday, bringing snow back to the Cascade mountain passes before sunrise. The snow is expected to continue off and on throughout the morning, making travel conditions over the passes potentially tricky. The lowlands can expect rain on Christmas Eve morning, which will break up by the evening. However, the main concern is the strong winds that are expected to develop on Wednesday afternoon, with the potential for 50+ mph gusts. The uncertainty surrounding the strength and track of the low-pressure area makes it difficult to predict the exact impact of the winds.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Weather
The winds that develop on Wednesday are expected to diminish by Christmas morning, leaving behind a few showers that will fall off and on throughout the day. The mountain passes can expect more snow on Christmas Day, making travel conditions potentially hazardous. However, the weather is expected to quiet down by Friday afternoon and Saturday, making it easier for travelers to drive home. This is good news for those planning to travel during the holiday season, as the roads are expected to be clearer and safer by the end of the week.
Conclusion and Travel Advice
In conclusion, the next three days will see a series of weather disturbances affecting western Washington, each bringing its own unique challenges for travelers. It’s essential to plan ahead, check the weather forecast regularly, and take necessary precautions to ensure safe travel. The Winter driving checklist is a useful resource for those planning to travel during the holiday season, providing tips and advice on how to prepare for winter driving conditions. By being aware of the weather conditions and taking necessary precautions, travelers can minimize their risk and have a safe and enjoyable holiday season.
