National Weather Service warns of icy conditions, possible light snow Monday evening in Spokane area

Greg Mason, The Spokesman-Review, Spokane, Wash.
·2 min read

Dec. 6—Snowfall around Spokane tapered off into Monday afternoon after about 1 to 2 inches fell across the area, according to preliminary estimates from the National Weather Service.

A few light snow showers were possible heading into Monday evening. Meteorologist Steve Bodnar urged drivers on their commutes home to stay vigilant, as falling temperatures could make for overall icy conditions as well as snow-covered roads in any untreated areas.

First responders were busy throughout the day Monday with motor vehicle accidents caused by road conditions.

Drivers along I-90 in both directions can also expect delays near the Medical Lake/Route 902 interchange starting Monday night, as the Washington State Department of Transportation announced crews will implement temporary single-lane closures due to barrier work. The closures will take place from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Friday.

Spokane saw the estimated 1 to 2 inches over an approximately 12-hour period since around 4 a.m. Some northern areas around Colville and Republic, meanwhile, saw an estimated 5 to 6 inches.

The heaviest snow was starting to move by 3:30 p.m. Bodnar said reports out of Viola, Idaho, near the Palouse was reporting upwards of 2 inches of snow by that time with more to come.

Temperatures are expected to climb back into the mid-30s on Tuesday, with a chance for light snow showers. Wednesday's forecast calls for temperatures in the upper 30s to lower 40s with a little snow possible in the morning followed by rain later into the afternoon.

Bodnar said windy conditions are expected Wednesday, with potential gusts anywhere from 20 to 40 mph. The heaviest winds are expected in the West Plains, South Hill, Five Mile Prairie and other higher elevation areas.

Current forecasts also expect strong winds for Saturday, which is when the Spokane area might see its next potential light to moderate snow event, Bodnar said.

"Still a lot of uncertainty with what kind of precipitation type it would be," he said, "but the potential there for some pretty hefty amounts if it stays snow."