Heavy Snow Warning Issued: Up to 4 Feet Expected Across Multiple States

The National Weather Service warns of dangerous travel conditions due to heavy snowfall and strong winds in parts of Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Montana, and Wyoming.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories for several states, with forecasts calling for up to 4 feet of snow and winds reaching 55 mph in some areas. Drivers are being urged to delay all travel in the affected regions, as the heavy snowfall and strong winds could make travel conditions extremely difficult or impossible, potentially leading to road closures and delays.

Why it matters

This severe winter storm has the potential to significantly disrupt transportation and daily life across a wide swath of the Pacific Northwest and Northern Rockies. The heavy snow and high winds could lead to power outages, school and business closures, and dangerous driving conditions that could put public safety at risk. Residents and travelers in the affected areas will need to closely monitor the weather and heed all warnings and advisories.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories for parts of Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Montana, and Wyoming. In Washington, the Cascades of Snohomish, northern King, Whatcom, and Skagit counties could see 12 to 18 inches of snow by Tuesday, with up to 4 feet possible by Friday. Similar conditions are expected in Stevens Pass and Holden Village, with up to 2 feet by Tuesday and 4 feet by Friday. The south Washington Cascades could get 6 to 10 inches by Monday, with up to 14 inches and 45 mph winds by Wednesday. In Alaska, Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Prince of Wales could see 1 to 6 inches of snow by Monday. Oregon's north Cascades are forecast to get 4 to 10 inches and 40 mph winds by Tuesday. Montana and Wyoming are also expected to see heavy snow and high winds through the week.

  • The winter storm is expected to begin on Monday and continue through Friday.
  • In Washington, the heaviest snow is forecast from Tuesday through Friday, with up to 4 feet possible by the end of the week.
  • In Alaska, the snow showers are expected to impact the morning and evening commute on Monday.
  • In Oregon, the heavy snow and winds are forecast for Tuesday afternoon.
  • In Montana and Wyoming, the snow and high winds are expected to taper off by Wednesday morning.

The players

National Weather Service

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The takeaway

This severe winter storm is a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events. Residents and travelers in the affected areas should closely monitor weather forecasts, heed all warnings and advisories, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this potentially dangerous situation.