Sudden Heavy Snow Warning as 33,000 People Told Not To Travel: 'Whiteout'

The National Weather Service issued a snow squall warning for parts of Washington state, urging residents to avoid travel due to dangerous conditions.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Spokane, Washington, issued a snow squall warning on Thursday, urging more than 33,000 people to delay travel due to heavy snow and strong winds that could cause visibility to plummet rapidly. The warning was in effect for southeastern Stevens County and southern Pend Oreille County, including several cities and highways. The NWS warned of 'whiteout conditions with near zero visibility' and said the snow squall could result in 'deadly traffic accidents'.

Why it matters

Snow squalls can strike suddenly and last less than an hour, causing localized extreme impacts to travel and commerce. Although snow accumulations may be minor, the combination of gusty winds, falling temperatures, and quick reductions in visibility can create extremely dangerous conditions for motorists. This warning highlights the importance of being prepared for sudden winter weather changes and the risks posed by snow squalls.

The details

The NWS Spokane office issued the snow squall warning shortly before 8 a.m. local time on Thursday. The warning was in effect for several cities and highways in southeastern Stevens County and southern Pend Oreille County, including U.S. Highway 20 and U.S. Highway 395. The warning was set to expire at 9 a.m. local time, although similar warnings could be issued in nearby areas as the storm progressed.

  • The snow squall warning was issued shortly before 8 a.m. local time on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • The warning was set to expire at 9 a.m. local time on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service (NWS) Spokane

The National Weather Service office in Spokane, Washington, that issued the snow squall warning.

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What’s next

The NWS warned that conditions can deteriorate rapidly in winter weather situations and urged drivers to be prepared for snow or ice-covered roads, slow down, and allow extra time when traveling.

The takeaway

This snow squall warning highlights the importance of being prepared for sudden and dangerous winter weather changes, as snow squalls can strike quickly and create life-threatening conditions for motorists, even when snow accumulations are relatively minor. The ability of the NWS to issue timely warnings is crucial for keeping communities safe during these types of winter weather events.