Statewide Snowpack |
94.0%
Of Normal |
Coldest Location |
29°
Nohrsc Harts Pass |
Top 5-Day Forecast |
48"
Marten Ridge |
Deepest Snowpack |
70"
Nohrsc Paradise |
New Snowfall |
2"
Medallion Peak Resort |
As winter persists, the state of Washington continues to see varied snow conditions across its diverse geography. Notably, the Nohrsc Paradise area, famous for its majestic Mount Rainier, is expecting a significant 34 inches of snow over the next five days, maintaining a robust snowpack depth of 70 inches, while areas like Nohrsc Buckinghorse anticipate an even greater accumulation of 46 inches, indicative of persistent heavy snowfall this season. Such substantial snow forecasts are crucial for winter sports enthusiasts and the operation of ski resorts like Crystal Mountain near the Paradise region. However, no new snow has fallen in the last 24 hours in these regions. Meanwhile, the Nohrsc Burnt Mountain area faces a snowpack drought with a meager depth of 4 inches, and no snowfall expected in the immediate future, pointing to potential concerns for local water supplies and springtime ecological impacts.
In contrast, Nohrsc Marten Ridge and Nohrsc 21A07 - Easy Pass are bracing for the most substantial snowfalls in the state, with forecasts of 48 and 40 inches respectively, which could impact accessibility and increase avalanche risks in the North Cascades. On the other end, Nohrsc Cooper Pass and Nohrsc Cougar Mountain near major population centers like Seattle report very low snowpack depths, 27.86 and 1 inch respectively, with minimal new snow, signaling a possible decline in winter recreation activities and concerns for long-term water resources in these areas. With such contrasting snow conditions, residents and visitors across Washington are advised to stay updated on local forecasts and advisories, especially when planning travel or outdoor activities in these winter months.
Snowpack conditions in Washington vary across different mountain ranges, providing crucial water resources for the state. The Cascades, Olympics, and eastern mountains contribute significantly to snow accumulation. The snowpack feeds into several runoff rivers and watersheds, including the Columbia, Yakima, and Skagit rivers, which play a vital role in irrigation, hydropower, and salmon habitats.
Winter climate characteristics in Washington involve a mix of maritime and continental influences. The mountains experience heavy precipitation, resulting in ample snow accumulation. The state's proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the presence of the Olympic and Cascade ranges create a rain shadow effect, leading to drier conditions east of these mountains.
Washington has a rich history in snow science and exploration. Mount Rainier, the state's highest peak, is the most extensively glaciated mountain in the contiguous United States. Notably, the Paradise Ranger Station on Mount Rainier holds the world record for the most annual snowfall at a single location, with over 93 feet recorded in the winter of 1971-1972.