Seattle braces for major winter storm

Forecasters warn of heavy snow, high winds, and potential power outages this weekend.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Seattle metro area, with forecasts calling for up to 12 inches of snow and wind gusts up to 50 mph starting Friday evening and lasting through Sunday. Residents are being advised to prepare for potential power outages and hazardous travel conditions.

Why it matters

Seattle has not seen a major winter storm of this magnitude in over a decade, and the region's infrastructure and emergency services could be tested by the extreme weather. Heavy snow and high winds could down trees and power lines, leaving thousands without electricity for an extended period.

The details

The storm system is expected to move in from the Pacific Northwest, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Forecasters say the heaviest snow will fall on Saturday, with the potential for blizzard conditions in some areas. Temperatures are predicted to remain below freezing throughout the weekend, making it difficult for road crews to clear the streets.

  • The winter storm warning goes into effect at 6 PM on Friday, February 28th.
  • The heaviest snow is expected to fall on Saturday, February 29th.
  • The storm is forecast to taper off by Sunday evening, March 1st.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing warnings for the United States.

Seattle Department of Transportation

The city agency responsible for maintaining roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure in Seattle.

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What they’re saying

“This is shaping up to be one of the biggest winter storms we've seen in Seattle in a very long time. Residents should prepare for significant disruptions and plan accordingly.”

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

“Our crews are ready to work around the clock to clear the roads, but we're asking residents to stay off the streets if possible and to be patient as we work to restore power and access.”

— Ethan Caldwell, Director, Seattle Department of Transportation (fox13seattle.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates on the expected timing and severity. The Seattle Department of Transportation will be coordinating with local utilities and emergency services to respond to any power outages or other weather-related issues.

The takeaway

This winter storm serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for cities to invest in infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change.