Feet of snow could pile up in the Cascade Mountains as a series of storms and colder temperatures shift through the region into Thursday.
A drop in temperatures following a weather system in the Pacific Northwest will enable feet of snow to build up in the Cascade Mountains, according to the FOX Forecast Center.
Along the coast, there could be episodes of intense rainfall, though overall precipitation amounts are forecast to be significantly less than the recent flooding experienced. (RELATED: Looming Storm Threat Could Potentially Unleash Snow, Hail, Rain To United States)
A duo of systems tracking southeast from the Gulf of Alaska is set to funnel moisture toward the coastlines and mountain ranges of Oregon and Washington.
An active system is currently generating heavy precipitation and increased wind speeds along the coast. As moisture flux intensifies, snow levels are expected to stay low, resulting in snowfall at and below pass elevations.
High-intensity snowfall rates are anticipated during periods, and the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued Winter Storm Warnings for the Cascade Range into Thursday afternoon.
Ready for some fresh powder? 🎿 The Cascades and Olympics will see significant snowfall this week, with 2 to 4 FEET of snow accumulation possible between Tuesday and Thursday. Use caution – travel through the passes will become difficult quickly. #WAwx pic.twitter.com/hibVdyfISW
— NWS Seattle (@NWSSeattle) January 5, 2026
Snowfall accumulations may reach totals of 2-4 feet. Additionally, wind gusts exceeding 35 mph are forecast, introducing the probability of whiteout conditions and reduced visibility at higher elevations.
Peak snowfall rates are projected to persist through Wednesday morning and into the early afternoon, with fresh accumulations expected to range between 10-20 inches.
Furthermore, elevated avalanche hazards have been identified across various sectors of the Pacific Northwest, with high risk levels currently forecast for several zones. (RELATED: Northern US To Experience Snow, Ice As Back-To-Back Storms Forecast To Move Through Region)
In terms of the long-range outlook, the Climate Prediction Center has highlighted a major pattern shift projected to develop across the Western U.S. toward the middle of January.
While portions of California are currently reporting precipitation totals nearing 200% of their seasonal norms, a transition toward drier conditions is imminent. A robust ridge of high pressure will form over the Northeastern Pacific, gradually migrating toward the West Coast over the coming weeks.