National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Spring Weather Hazards Across the U.S. Thursday

Gusty winds and low relative humidity will bring critical fire weather to the central and southern Plains and south Texas Thursday. Widespread high winds will continue to impact the interior Northwest, northern Plains, and Upper Midwest Thursday. A storm tracking across the northern Plains, Great Lakes and into the Northeast U.S. will bring heavy snow and gusty winds Thursday into Saturday. Read More >

Strong wind gusts are expected to develop Wednesday evening and persist into early Thursday morning. Wind gusts of 50 to 65 MPH are possible, which may lead to widespread tree damage and power outages. Other impacts include choppy lakes, difficult driving for high-profile vehicles, and the potential for blowing dust around the Moses Lake Area.
Snow levels will fall back down on Thursday, with precipitation increasing again Thursday Night. How this situation evolves carries high uncertainty in the snow forecast. The official NWS forecast issued at 2 AM PDT March 12th is shown, but broader ranges are possible and shown on the right side of the graphic. Snow amounts carry high uncertainty for the lower elevations of the Palouse and Central Panhandle Mountains, as well as the Camas Prairie.
Heavy snow showers will impact mountain passes tonight through Friday. Stevens Pass could see up to 3 feet of snow, Snoqualmie Pass could see up to 3 feet of snow, and Lookout Pass could see up to 2 feet of snow. Please avoid travel if possible. If travel is necessary, keep an emergency supply kit in the vehicle.
A few rivers in the Palouse and one in the east Slopes of the Cascades will experience bankfull or minor flooding conditions Friday, March 13 through Sunday, March 15. These rivers are: Stehekin River, Paradise Creek, and Palouse River. Impacts include minor flooding and swift currents. Please take precautions and follow all road signs regarding any flooded roads.

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