Spokane Braces for 3-Day Mountain Snow Event

Hazardous travel conditions expected on I-90 and Cascade passes starting Tuesday

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:24pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of grey, white, and blue, depicting a snow-covered mountain pass shrouded in heavy fog and haze. The road and any vehicles are barely visible, dwarfed by the towering, ominous peaks that dominate the scene, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of the natural environment.A looming winter storm threatens to engulf the mountain passes around Spokane, Washington, posing hazards for travelers.Spokane Today

A multi-day winter storm system is set to bring heavy snow to the mountain passes around Spokane, Washington, starting on Tuesday afternoon and lasting through Friday. Drivers crossing the Cascades and northern Idaho mountains could face reduced visibility, snow-covered lanes, and quickly deteriorating conditions, especially during peak travel times.

Why it matters

The impending snowstorm poses significant risks for travelers in the region, with the potential to create hazardous driving conditions on major highways like I-90 and US-2. The weather event could disrupt commutes and delay essential travel, underscoring the importance of preparedness and safety for residents and visitors.

The details

According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, snow will begin across the Cascades around 12 p.m. on Tuesday, intensifying through Wednesday night. Northern Idaho mountains will also see snow develop on Tuesday afternoon, with impacts lasting into Friday afternoon. Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass, and Lookout Pass are expected to be the most heavily affected, with reduced visibility and snow-covered lanes likely during peak travel periods.

  • Snow will begin in the Cascades around 12 p.m. on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.
  • Snow will develop in the northern Idaho mountains on Tuesday afternoon, April 15, 2026.
  • The snowstorm is expected to last through Friday afternoon, April 18, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service in Spokane

The local office of the National Weather Service that issued the forecast and weather alerts for the Spokane region.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)

The state agency responsible for maintaining and monitoring road conditions on major highways like I-90 and US-2 in the Spokane area.

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What they’re saying

“Travelers should delay non-essential trips through mountain corridors, carry tire chains, and check WSDOT pass reports before departure. Conditions may shift quickly with elevation.”

— National Weather Service in Spokane

What’s next

The National Weather Service and WSDOT will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates on road conditions and travel advisories as the system evolves over the next few days.

The takeaway

This multi-day snowstorm is a reminder of the importance of winter weather preparedness and safety for drivers in the Spokane region. Heeding weather warnings, checking road conditions, and adjusting travel plans accordingly can help prevent accidents and delays during hazardous winter driving conditions.