Spokane, WA – If you were hoping for a calm and cozy weekend, Mother Nature has other plans. A powerful winter storm is rolling into town, bringing heavy snow, rain, and downright nasty travel conditions—just in time for Washington’s Birthday. If you need to be on the road, especially along Interstate 90, be prepared for slick streets, icy patches, and poor visibility.
What’s Coming Our Way?
The National Weather Service is warning that this storm is no joke. Expect snow, rain, and freezing temps that could make for a pretty miserable few days. Here’s what we’re looking at:
- Saturday, February 17: It starts off cold and cloudy, with light snow in the afternoon. While accumulations will be minor at first, roads will get slick fast. Highs near 35°F (2°C), lows around 30°F (-1°C).
- Sunday, February 18: This is when things get serious. Snow will pick up throughout the day, and we could see 1-3 inches of accumulation. With temps hovering around 36°F (2°C), expect a sloppy mix of snow and rain in some areas—making travel a real headache.
- Monday, February 19 (Washington’s Birthday): Snow flurries will hang around in the morning, keeping roads slick. While heavy accumulations aren’t expected, the cold temps—37°F (3°C) during the day, dropping to 26°F (-4°C) at night—mean ice will likely be a big issue.
Driving? Be Extra Careful on I-90
If you’re heading out, especially on I-90, take extra precautions. We’ve already seen accidents due to the icy conditions, including:
- A multi-car crash near the Evergreen Road interchange, causing serious delays.
- A tragic incident where a man was hit and killed while helping a stranded driver near the Evergreen Interchange.
- Current I-90 Conditions: As of Friday, the highway from Broadway to the Idaho State Line is a messy mix of wet, snowy, and slushy patches. And it’s only going to get worse.
How to Stay Safe on the Roads
- If you don’t have to drive, don’t. Staying home is your best bet.
- Take it slow. Speed limits assume clear roads—these won’t be.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car. Think blankets, snacks, water, flashlight, and a charged phone.
- Watch out for bridges and overpasses. They freeze faster than regular roads.
With this storm on the horizon, now’s the time to prepare. Charge your devices, stock up on essentials, and keep an eye on weather updates. If you do have to head out, make sure you’re ready for whatever winter throws your way.
