Blizzard and Winter Storm Warnings Issued for the Olympics Through Saturday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Seattle, WA, has issued a series of severe weather alerts for the Olympic Mountains. A Blizzard Warning will be in effect initially, followed immediately by a Winter Storm Warning. These alerts indicate a high probability of hazardous winter conditions that will significantly impact the region.

Affected Areas

The warnings specifically cover the Olympics (WAZ328) in Washington state.

Expected Conditions

Residents and travelers should prepare for two distinct phases of severe weather:

• Blizzard Conditions: Expected to bring total snow accumulations of up to 4 inches with wind gusts reaching as high as 60 mph. Visibilities may drop below one-quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow.
• Winter Storm Conditions: Heavy snow is forecast with total accumulations between 1 and 3 feet. Wind gusts during this period are expected to reach up to 40 mph.

Timeline

• Blizzard Warning: Effective from 6:00 PM Wednesday, March 11, until 5:00 AM PDT Thursday, March 12.
• Winter Storm Warning: Effective from 5:00 AM Thursday, March 12, until 5:00 AM PDT Saturday, March 14.

What You Should Do

Travel is expected to be very difficult to impossible and should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, the NWS advises keeping an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle. Ensure you have a winter survival kit and stay with your vehicle if you become stranded. Additionally, residents should prepare for possible power outages and extensive tree damage due to very strong winds.