White Pass Ski Area, Washington, Forced To Close By "Blizzard Conditions"

Ian Greenwood
·2 min read
1

Due to blizzard conditions, White Pass Ski Area, Washington, was forced to close for skiing and riding today.

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A post shared by White Pass Ski Area (@whitepass)

High winds and heavy snowfall are expected at White Pass for the rest of today and tonight. A blizzard warning from the National Weather Service is currently in effect.

The blizzard warning lifts tomorrow at 10 A.M. "Blizzard conditions above 2000 feet. Additional snow accumulations of 2 to 3 feet. Winds gusting as high as 60 mph," the warning reads.

White Pass also closed uphill access today alongside its chairlifts, with plans to open tomorrow as scheduled. "Check our conditions page later today for updates on tomorrow's epic powder day!" the resort wrote on Instagram.

It's the first time in ten years that Washington has faced a blizzard warning, according to KING 5 Seattle.

Blizzard warnings require heavy snowfall, high winds, and low visibility, whereas winter storm warnings only require heavy snowfall.

To those planning to ski at White Pass or elsewhere in Washington's Cascade Range, three things.

First, I'm jealous. The skiing's probably going to be incredible. Two, don't screw around with the travel planning. Ensure the resort you're headed to is planning on opening (check in the morning!), keep your eyes on the Washington Department of Transportation's socials, and—for the love of god—don't try to drive into the mountains with the wrong car or tires.

Finally, be patient. Don't drive like a maniac (the powder's not going anywhere), and remember, the ski resorts are working tirelessly to keep the lights on during this challenging but exciting period. Give everyone as much grace as you can.

Related: Washington Ski Resort Issues Warning Amid Heavy Storm: "Anticipate Disruptions"

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