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Melting snow could refreeze, leading to slick commute in Spokane area on Wednesday

Spokane saw about two inches of snow Tuesday, which is expected to melt away during the afternoon. The melted snow could freeze overnight and create slick roads.

SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — Tuesday night temperatures will dip into the 20s across the Inland Northwest. That means any snow that melts during the day will refreeze overnight and drivers should expect a slick commute on Wednesday morning.

Temperatures are expected to warm into the upper 30s on Tuesday afternoon, so road conditions will be more on the wet and slushy side by then. There is the possibility of a little rain/snow mix later on Tuesday as temperatures climb above freezing.

Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, and Kellogg are still under a Winter Weather Advisory until 4 p.m. on Tuesday as the snow may linger longer into the day farther east.

The National Weather Service reported 2.4 inches of snow at its West Plains office on Tuesday morning. Exact totals have not yet been reported for other areas of Spokane and North Idaho. 

Mountain slopes in northeastern Washington and North Idaho will see greater snow accumulations. Schweitzer Mountain Resort near Sandpoint saw five inches of snow overnight and the flakes are still flying on Tuesday morning. 

The Cascades could see heavy snow, so those with travel plans across Snoqualmie or Stevens Passes should give themselves extra time and check if there are any restrictions or tire requirements before leaving. 

RELATED: Your pictures: Spokane saw one to two inches of snow overnight Tuesday

Though some roads were slick following the snowstorm, Ryan Overton with the state Department of Transportation said on Tuesday morning that they are in good shape overall.

The upcoming weekend looks to be an active period weather-wise. Warmer temperatures are expected beginning Friday through Sunday, with highs in the 40s, windy conditions and a mix of low elevation rain and snow.

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RELATED: WSDOT says roads are in good shape in Spokane after Tuesday snow

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