WASHINGTON — Many areas across the region are waking up to single digit or sub-zero temperatures, leading to a bitter cold start to the Friday. Compact snow and ice on mountain pass roads has caused dangerous driving conditions.
Before you travel, here’s a look at mountain pass conditions in Washington and Idaho as of 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 12.
Washington Passes
Blewett Pass: Right now, the roadway is open but be cautious of compact snow and ice while driving. It is lightly snowing but conditions are steady. Also, chains are required on all vehicles except all wheel drive, oversized vehicles are prohibited.
For updates on Blewett Pass conditions, visit the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) website.
Snoqualmie Pass: Right now, the roadway is open but be cautious of compact snow and ice while driving. It is snowing so be aware that road conditions may change. Anyone driving on eastbound, be aware that traction tires are required, chains are required for vehicles over 10,000 gross vehicle weight and oversized vehicles are prohibited. For westbound traffic, traction tires are advised and oversized vehicles are prohibited.
If you would like to receive updates on weather conditions on Snoqualmie pass, WSDOT said to text ‘start’ to 85107. For more information, visit the WSDOT website.
Stevens Pass: Right now, the roadway is open but be cautious of compact snow and ice while driving. Current weather conditions is overcast skies with light snow. Right now if you are driving along the pass, chains are required on all vehicles except all wheel drive, oversized vehicles are prohibited.
Visit the WSDOT website for information on Stevens Pass.
White Pass: Right now, the pass is closed in both directions due to high winds, blowing snow and numerous fallen trees over the highway. Eastbound traffic is stopped at milepost 138, seven miles east of Packwood, and westbound traffic is stopped at the summit, milepost 151. Cleanup has not begun yet due to current hazardous conditions.
For the latest updates on White Pass, visit the WSDOT website.
Idaho/Montana Passes
Lookout Pass: Currently, there is low visibility on the roadway as you are headed towards Montana. The Idaho Department of Transportation reports that there are no crashes this morning but roadways are very icy and slick.
For more information, visit the Montana Department of Transportation (DOT) website.
Lolo Pass: Right now there is a heavy pileup of snow on the roadway and has created difficult driving conditions. There is blowing and drifting snow across most of the highway this morning and chains are required.
For more information, visit the Montana Department of Transportation (DOT) website.
