WASHINGTON SNOW REPORT

February 13 2025

Washington's winter wonderland is gearing up for a colossal season as fresh powder is set to blanket the Cascades. With a storm system swooping in, ski aficionados can expect epic snowfall, with Alpine Meadows boasting a monster 215-inch base and Stevens Pass a brutal 203 inches, ensuring the finest downhill thrills. But it's not just about the slopes; snowpack depths across the state signal a surge in backcountry potential, especially at spots like Cayuse Pass and Paradise. Yet, residents must stay vigilant with the White Pass East Slope closing due to a snowfall blitz, mimicking California's own weather woes. As Bruce Williams steps down from his Cascade Medical role, snow seekers are reminded that even in this frosty paradise, nature's force commands respect with potential road closures and avalanche risks. So, wax your skis and brace for a winter packed with chills, thrills, and snow-packed hills.

Statewide Snowpack 111.0%
of Normal
Coldest Location
Nohrsc Harts Pass
Top 5-Day Forecast 6"
Buckinghorse
Deepest Snowpack 149"
Nohrsc Blewett Pass


Active Weather Alerts

February 13 2025

Residents across multiple Washington communities, including Seattle, Bremerton, Everett, Tacoma, the central coast, and the vicinity of the North and South Central Cascades, are advised to prepare for extremely low temperatures and cold wind chills, with values dipping as low as 15 to 25 degrees below zero in some areas, persisting until noon today. The National Weather Service warns of potential hypothermia due to the frigid conditions and advises the public to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations such as the homeless, pets, and individuals without sufficient heating. Additionally, the East Puget Sound Lowlands and North Coast are under wind advisories with gusts up to 50 mph that could cause tree damage and power outages. The public should stay informed and exercise caution, particularly in the affected regions.

About Washington



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.

Snowpack Distribution


       

Get Unparalelled Insights

Explore the Map

Whether you're planning your next ski trip or tracking stream flows for an upcoming rafting expedition, our map offers instant access to essential conditions, forecasts, and trends.