Spokane, Washington – Drivers across eastern Washington and north Idaho are being urged to prepare for hazardous travel beginning Tuesday afternoon as a widespread winter system brings snow, gusty winds, and slick roads. The most difficult conditions are expected during the Tuesday evening commute, with impacts continuing into Wednesday morning.
Forecasters warn that snowfall combined with near-freezing temperatures could quickly deteriorate road conditions across urban areas, highways, and mountain passes.
Winter Weather Advisories Issued
The National Weather Service Spokane has issued Winter Weather Advisories effective from late Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning for large portions of eastern Washington and the northern Idaho Panhandle.
Meteorologists say snow will develop gradually Tuesday morning before intensifying during the afternoon and evening hours. In many locations, snow will fall during peak travel times, increasing the risk of accidents and delays.
Heavy Snow Expected in North Idaho Mountains
The Idaho Panhandle is expected to see the most significant snowfall, particularly at higher elevations above 3,000 feet.
Forecast highlights include:
- 8 to 15 inches of snow possible in mountain areas
- Impacted locations include Schweitzer Mountain Road, Bonners Ferry, and Eastport
- Wind gusts up to 35 mph, leading to areas of blowing and drifting snow
Lower-elevation communities such as Sandpoint and Priest River are forecast to receive 2 to 5 inches of snow, which could still result in slick streets and reduced visibility during the evening hours.
Snowfall Across Northeastern Washington
In northeastern Washington, lighter but still impactful snowfall is expected across several communities.
Areas including Colville, Newport, Deer Park, and Metaline Falls could see 1 to 4 inches of snow, while locations closer to the Canadian border in Pend Oreille County may receive up to 8 inches.
Even modest snowfall amounts could cause problems due to cold pavement temperatures and compacted snow on secondary roads.
Spokane Metro Area Impacts
In the Spokane metro area, snowfall totals are expected to vary by elevation.
- Airway Heights, Cheney, and Davenport may see up to 2 inches during a heavier snow burst Tuesday afternoon
- Downtown Spokane and nearby low-lying areas may receive lighter accumulations, but slick conditions are still likely
Officials caution that bridges, overpasses, and shaded roadways could freeze quickly, even if snowfall totals remain low.
Coeur d’Alene and Palouse Region Forecast
In north Idaho’s Coeur d’Alene area and across the Palouse, including Moscow and Genesee, snowfall totals of 2 to 5 inches are forecast.
This timing places the heaviest snowfall squarely during the evening commute, increasing the likelihood of slow traffic, spin-outs, and minor collisions. Overnight refreezing could keep roads icy into Wednesday morning.
Travel and Safety Advice for Motorists
Transportation officials are urging drivers to take precautions as conditions deteriorate.
Key safety recommendations include:
- Slow down and increase following distance
- Allow extra travel time, especially Tuesday evening
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns
- Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle
- Check road conditions before departing using 511 services or official state transportation updates
Plows will be active across the region, but snowfall rates during heavier bursts may outpace clearing efforts.
What to Expect Through Wednesday Morning
Snow is expected to taper off gradually overnight, but lingering slick spots are likely through Wednesday morning, particularly in shaded areas and higher elevations. Temperatures remaining near or below freezing may allow compacted snow and ice to persist during the early commute.
Forecasters advise residents to stay alert for updated advisories or potential extensions if conditions worsen.
Conclusion
A developing winter storm will bring snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and hazardous travel across eastern Washington and north Idaho starting Tuesday afternoon. With the most challenging conditions expected during the evening commute and overnight hours, drivers are encouraged to prepare ahead of time and use caution on all roadways.
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