Seattle braces for major snowstorm

Forecasters predict up to 12 inches of snow in the Puget Sound region this weekend.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Seattle metropolitan area, with forecasts calling for up to 12 inches of snow to accumulate from Friday evening through Sunday morning. Residents are being advised to prepare for hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages as the storm system moves in from the Pacific Northwest.

Why it matters

Major snowstorms are relatively rare in the Seattle area, which typically sees mild, rainy winters. This storm could disrupt transportation, close schools and businesses, and leave thousands without power for an extended period, highlighting the region's limited preparedness for significant winter weather.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the snowstorm is expected to begin Friday evening, with the heaviest snowfall occurring overnight into Saturday morning. Snowfall rates could reach 1-2 inches per hour at the peak of the storm. Gusty winds of up to 35 mph are also forecast, which could lead to blowing and drifting snow, further hampering travel. The snow is expected to taper off by Sunday afternoon.

  • The winter storm warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Friday, February 13 to 1 p.m. Sunday, February 15.
  • The heaviest snowfall is expected to occur overnight Friday into Saturday morning.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What they’re saying

“This is shaping up to be the biggest snowstorm we've seen in the Seattle area in several years. Residents should prepare for significant disruptions and plan accordingly.”

— Meteorologist Sarah Thompson, National Weather Service (fox13seattle.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updated forecasts and warnings as the system approaches and moves through the region.

The takeaway

This major snowstorm serves as a reminder that even mild-weathered cities like Seattle can be vulnerable to severe winter weather, underscoring the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for infrastructure investments to improve resilience.