Lowland Snow Blankets Parts of Western Washington

Sporadic snow showers expected across the region through Friday

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Lowland snow is accumulating in certain areas of western Washington on Tuesday, with the Tacoma area seeing snowfall as of 6:30 a.m. Sporadic, minor amounts of lowland snow are possible each night through early morning this week, through Friday, according to meteorologists. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through 12 p.m. Tuesday for one to three inches of snow for the Olympic Peninsula and the Hood Canal area.

Why it matters

While no major snow is expected in western Washington, the unseasonably cool temperatures and potential for icy conditions on roads, bridges, and sidewalks could impact morning commutes and daily activities across the region.

The details

The National Weather Service Seattle stated that showers will result in a rain/snow mix across lowland areas, primarily during the overnight and morning hours when temperatures are coldest. Snow accumulation is possible under heavier showers. The best chance for accumulating snow in lower elevations is expected to be along the coastal region from north of Hoquiam to the western half of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, while inland higher hills and even a few lower elevations could see some snow on grassy surfaces and rooftops.

  • Snow is reportedly falling in Tacoma as of 6:30 a.m. on February 17, 2026.
  • A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through 12 p.m. on February 17, 2026 for the Olympic Peninsula and Hood Canal area.
  • Sporadic, minor amounts of lowland snow are possible each night through early morning this week, through February 21, 2026.

The players

KIRO 7

A local television news station in the Seattle area.

National Weather Service Seattle

The regional office of the National Weather Service covering western Washington.

The Emerald City Weather Blog

A local weather blog covering the Seattle metropolitan area.

Taholah School District

A school district located in the coastal region of western Washington.

Northwest Avalanche Center

A regional organization that provides avalanche forecasting and education for the Pacific Northwest.

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What they’re saying

“Showers will result in rain/ snow mix across lowland areas of western Washington , primarily during the overnight/morning hours when temps are coldest. Snow accumulation is possible under heavier showers.”

— National Weather Service Seattle (Twitter)

“If you were to look at the overall pattern this week and rate the snow potential from 1-10, 1 being like 'every day this lame winter so far' and 10 being like 'we're about to be South Canada and you're already too late to panic buy bread and milk,' I'd rate this a 3.”

— Scott Sistek, Meteorologist, The Emerald City Weather Blog (The Emerald City Weather Blog)

“Be careful out there this morning. It is very icy in spots. I slid a bunch in my front-wheel drive on my neighborhood streets.”

— Chris Sullivan (Twitter)

What’s next

The Taholah School District announced that classes will start two hours late due to local weather conditions. For up-to-date information regarding school delays and closures, residents should check the district's website.

The takeaway

This week's unseasonal weather pattern and potential for icy conditions on roads and sidewalks serves as a reminder for residents in western Washington to exercise caution when venturing out, especially during the overnight and morning hours when temperatures are coldest.