Weather Alert: Snow Squall to Hit Eastern Washington Wednesday Evening

On Wednesday evening, a snow squall warning was issued for Eastern Washington, particularly affecting the Palouse and Spokane regions. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Spokane, the alert was active from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM.

Details of the Snow Squall

The snow squall was detected along a line extending from nine miles south of Dishman to twelve miles west of Plummer, moving north at 35 mph. Winds could exceed 30 mph in the affected areas, drastically reducing visibility. Areas impacted include:

• Spokane
• Spokane Valley
• Post Falls
• Liberty Lake
• Millwood
• Hauser
• Otis Orchards-East Farms
• Green Acres
• Fairfield
• Rosalia
• Rockford
• Oakesdale
• Spangle
• Worley
• Latah
• Waverly
• State Line

Affected Highways

Key highways impacted by the snow squall include:

• Interstate 90 in Washington (between mile markers 285 and 299)
• Interstate 90 in Idaho (between mile markers 0 and 3)
• U.S. Highway 95 in Idaho (between mile markers 404 and 421)
• U.S. Highway 195 in Washington (between mile markers 66 and 86)

Safety Precautions

Travelers in the affected areas are advised to exercise extreme caution. Visibility may drop to less than half a mile, creating a high risk for accidents due to sudden weather changes. Black ice is likely to form on roadways, which can lead to hazardous driving conditions.

Recommended Actions

If you must travel, consider the following safety measures:

• Postpone travel until the snow squall passes.
• If already on the road, reduce speed and turn on headlights.
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Understanding Snow Squalls

Snow squalls are intense, brief winter weather events associated with strong cold fronts. They can cause white-out conditions and icy roads within minutes, despite the absence of a major winter storm. Unlike a snowstorm, which can last hours or days, snow squalls typically last less than an hour.

Winter Weather Preparedness

For safe winter driving, follow these essential tips:

• Prepare your vehicle by checking tires, brakes, and fluids.
• Carry an emergency kit with blankets, food, water, and first-aid supplies.
• Stay informed through the NWS for the latest updates on winter weather.

By understanding snow squalls and taking the necessary precautions, residents of Eastern Washington can navigate these winter challenges effectively and safely.