Seattle Braces for Snowstorm, Prepares for Disruptions

Forecasters predict up to 8 inches of snow in the Puget Sound region this weekend.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Seattle area is preparing for a major winter storm that is expected to bring significant snowfall to the region this weekend. Meteorologists are forecasting up to 8 inches of snow in the Puget Sound area, with the potential for power outages, school closures, and disruptions to transportation.

Why it matters

Snowstorms can have a major impact on daily life in the Seattle area, which doesn't experience heavy snow as frequently as other parts of the country. The city's infrastructure and services are often strained during severe winter weather, leading to concerns about public safety and economic disruptions.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Seattle metropolitan area, with the heaviest snowfall expected on Saturday. City officials are urging residents to stock up on supplies, stay off the roads if possible, and be prepared for potential power outages. Local schools and businesses are monitoring the forecast and making contingency plans.

  • The winter storm warning is in effect from Friday evening through Sunday morning.
  • Forecasters predict the heaviest snowfall will occur on Saturday, with accumulations of 4 to 8 inches expected.

The players

National Weather Service

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

Seattle City Officials

Local government leaders and emergency management personnel responsible for coordinating the city's response to the impending snowstorm.

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What they’re saying

“We're urging everyone to stay off the roads if possible and to be prepared for potential power outages and other disruptions.”

— Mayor Jenny Durkan, Mayor of Seattle (Seattle Times)

“This storm has the potential to be one of the most significant snowfall events we've seen in the Seattle area in recent years.”

— Meteorologist Cliff Mass, Professor of Atmospheric Sciences, University of Washington (KOMO News)

What’s next

City officials will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates on road conditions, school closures, and other impacts throughout the weekend.

The takeaway

The impending snowstorm serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for Seattle's infrastructure and services to be resilient in the face of severe winter weather.