SNOQUALMIE PASS, Wash. – Heavy snow is starting to fall over Snoqualmie Pass after a wild Monday night brought heavy rain, sleet, even lightning to the summit. One lightning bolt blacked out the area for a short time.
Forecasters say the freezing level will drop to 3,000 feet by Monday night, leaving snow on Stevens, White, Washington and Snoqualmie passes with accumulations of 6 to 12 inches and up to 18 inches in places.
Snow, though, is now the main concern as the roads become slick and most drivers are out of practice navigating winter like conditions.
As driver’s deal with the headaches, others are welcoming the early shot of winter. One man brought his father who is visiting from India to the pass. It is the first time he has seen, touched, and yes even tasted snow.
At the Hyak plow shed at Snoqualmie Pass, the trucks are ready to roll.
Al Minerich of the Washington State Department of Transportation says even more trucks are on the way to battle snow and ice over busy I-90. Upwards of 20 plows and graders will work to keep the roads clear once the weather turns.
Minerich says there will be a cadre of veteran plow drivers at the pass the season. And when the snow starts piling up, extra teams can be called in from as far away as Bellevue and Yakima.
As a winter storm warning remained in effect Monday evening, Minerich reminded drivers conditions can change quickly in the passes. Slowing down is the best advice. Minerich also says give the plow teams plenty of room to work.
“If they are working in tandem, just stay behind the plows. Most runs are only a few miles," said Minerich. “Wait for the plows to pull over then pass them."
And just like the trucks need to get tuned up, we all need a refresher in winter driving.
"Pay attention. Look out that windshield. See what's going on out there. I mean, if you see some snow and slush out there, drop your speed," said Minerich.
It is also a good idea to start preparing your winter driving kit, if you are planning to travel over the mountains. Your trip over might be sunny and dry, but your trip back could be much rougher. A kit should include things like tire chains, blankets and warm clothing. A flashlight and some non-perishable food and water round out the items you might need to deal with a road closure or other unforeseen delay.
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