Alert archive / Idaho / Winter Storm Watches in 2021

Winter Storm Watch 7, NWS Spokane, WA

December 9, 20215 counties in Washington; 6 counties in Idaho

NWS Spokane, WA issued this winter storm watch at Dec 9, 2021, 2:45 AM PST for 5 counties in Washington; 6 counties in Idaho. It took effect at Dec 10, 2021, 10:00 PM PST. It was in force for .

The area

The counties it named.

The facts

Issued
Dec 9, 2021, 2:45 AM PST (10:45 UTC)
In effect from
Dec 10, 2021, 10:00 PM PST
Expired
Dec 10, 2021, 2:31 PM PST
In force
Issued by
NWS Spokane, WA

Counties Benewah County, ID, Bonner County, ID, Boundary County, ID, Kootenai County, ID, Latah County, ID, Shoshone County, ID, Chelan County, WA, Okanogan County, WA, Pend Oreille County, WA, Spokane County, WA, Stevens County, WA

The radar

The Spokane radar (KOTX), 30 km from the middle of the area, began a volume at 10:46 UTC, the scan nearest the moment this went out.

Open the radar archive at this moment

The archived warnings, watches and discussions in force at that minute are drawn over the scan, this one among them.

The nearest sounding before it

Spokane, WA (KOTX), launched 00:00Z, 10.8 hours before the alert went out and 82 km from the middle of its area. This is the routine balloon launch nearest before it, the air the forecaster had in hand, not a measurement taken for the alert.

Skew-T log-pSkew-T log-p diagram, Spokane, WA at 00:00Z on 2021-12-09Temperature and dew point through the depth of the atmosphere, with the mixed-layer parcel. CAPE 0 joules per kilogram.LCL10008507005003002001001 km2 km3 km6 km9 km12 km15 km-30°-20°-10°10°20°30°40°
Temperature in red, dew point in green, the mixed-layer parcel dashed.
HodographHodograph, Spokane, WA at 00:00Z on 2021-12-09The wind through the lowest 10 kilometers. Zero to 1 km storm-relative helicity 148 square meters per square second.1939587897Sfc1 km3 km6 km9 kmRMLM
The wind turning with height, colored by layer: ground to 1 km, 1 to 3 km, 3 to 6 km, 6 to 10 km.
Mixed-layer CAPE
0 J/kg
Mixed-layer CIN
No buoyant parcel
Mixed-layer LCL
1519 m above ground
0-6 km bulk shear
52 kt
0-1 km storm-relative helicity
148 m²/s²
0-3 km storm-relative helicity
155 m²/s²
Significant tornado parameter
0.0
Supercell composite
0.0

Open this sounding in Storm Lab

The text

As transmitted.

872 
WWUS46 KOTX 091045
WSWOTX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Spokane WA
245 AM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...SNOW SHOWERS THURSDAY FOLLOWED BY A WINTER STORM BRINGING HEAVY 
SNOW FRIDAY NIGHT THROUGH SATURDAY...

.Snow showers will continue over the Cascade crest Thursday into 
Thursday evening at the Cascades crest resulting in difficult travel 
at times over Stevens Pass. Snow showers will also develop over the 
Central Panhandle Mountains Thursday afternoon and evening with 
bursts of heavy snow at times. A winter storm will then move into 
the Cascades by Friday evening with snow becoming heavy Friday night 
through Saturday. Travel is not recommended over Stevens Pass during 
this winter storm. Snow is expected to decrease overnight Saturday 
into Sunday.

WAZ048-092330-
/O.CAN.KOTX.WS.W.0011.000000T0000Z-211209T1800Z/
/O.NEW.KOTX.WW.Y.0038.211209T1045Z-211210T0600Z/
/O.NEW.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
Western Chelan County-
Including the cities of Holden Village, Stehekin, and Stevens
Pass
245 AM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WARNING IS CANCELLED...
...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REPLACING WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT 
UNTIL 10 PM PST THIS EVENING...
...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH SATURDAY 
EVENING...

* WHAT...For the Winter Weather Advisory, snow at Cascade Crest and 
  Stevens Pass. Additional snow accumulations between 6 and 12 
  inches. For the Winter Storm Watch, heavy snow possible. Total 
  snow accumulations between 1 to 2 feet possible. Winds could gust 
  as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Stevens Pass, Holden Village, and Stehekin.

* WHEN...For the Winter Weather Advisory, until 10 PM PST this 
  evening. For the Winter Storm Watch, from Friday evening through 
  Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS...Snow will make for difficult travel conditions through 
  Thursday evening. Heavy snow for Friday night through Saturday 
  could result in very difficult to impossible travel conditions. 
  Travel over Stevens Pass is not advised during this period of 
  heavy snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Persons should consider delaying all travel Friday night through 
Saturday. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme 
caution. Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, 
including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, 
shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid 
kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you 
become stranded.

&&

$$

IDZ004-092330-
/O.NEW.KOTX.WW.Y.0038.211209T2100Z-211210T0800Z/
Central Panhandle Mountains-
Including the cities of Wallace, Osburn, Dobson Pass, Kellogg,
Fernwood, Lookout Pass, and Mullan
245 AM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 
MIDNIGHT PST TONIGHT...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 6 
  inches.

* WHERE...Wallace, Osburn, Dobson Pass, Kellogg, Fernwood, Lookout 
  Pass, and Mullan.

* WHEN...From 1 PM this afternoon to Midnight PST tonight.

* IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Bursts of heavy snow will be possible with 
  snow accumulations of up to 1 inch per hour. Plan on rapid changes 
  to weather conditions for the late afternoon and evening travel 
  period over Lookout Pass.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

WAZ047-049-092330-
/O.NEW.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
Central Chelan County-Western Okanogan County-
Including the cities of Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow,
Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Conconully, and Mazama
245 AM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH SATURDAY 
EVENING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 
  7 inches possible in the valleys and 8 to 18 inches possible in 
  the mountains. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow, Twisp, Loup Loup 
  Pass, Conconully, and Mazama.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

SVH
5 follow-up statements
886 
WWUS46 KOTX 092245
WSWOTX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Spokane WA
245 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...SNOW SHOWERS TODAY FOLLOWED BY A WINTER STORM BRINGING HEAVY SNOW 
FRIDAY NIGHT THROUGH LATE SATURDAY...

.Snow showers will continue over the Cascade crest into Thursday 
evening at the Cascade crest resulting in difficult travel at times 
over Stevens Pass. Snow showers will continue over the Central 
Panhandle Mountains Thursday afternoon and evening with bursts of 
heavy snow at times. A winter storm will then move into the Cascades 
by Friday evening with snow becoming heavy Friday night through late 
Saturday. Travel will be difficult over Stevens Pass and Lookout 
Pass during this winter storm. Snow is expected to decrease 
overnight Saturday into Sunday.

IDZ004-101000-
/O.EXB.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1200Z-211212T1200Z/
/O.CON.KOTX.WW.Y.0038.000000T0000Z-211210T0800Z/
Central Panhandle Mountains-
Including the cities of Fourth Of July Pass, Wallace, Osburn,
Dobson Pass, Kellogg, St. Maries, Fernwood, Lookout Pass, Mullan,
and Pinehurst
245 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT PST 
TONIGHT...
...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE FRIDAY NIGHT THROUGH LATE 
SATURDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Snow expected. For the Winter Weather Advisory additional 
  snow accumulations between 1 and 3 inches. For the Winter Storm 
  Watch, heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 
  8 inches in the valleys and 10 and 20 inches possible in the 
  mountains. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Fourth Of July Pass, Wallace, Osburn, Dobson Pass, 
  Kellogg, St. Maries, Fernwood, Lookout Pass, Mullan, and Pinehurst.

* WHEN...For the Winter Weather Advisory, until Midnight PST 
  tonight. For the Winter Storm Watch, from late Friday night 
  through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The 
  hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening commutes 
  and any travel late Friday through Saturday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

WAZ048-101000-
/O.CON.KOTX.WW.Y.0038.000000T0000Z-211210T0600Z/
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
Western Chelan County-
Including the cities of Holden Village, Stehekin, and Stevens
Pass
245 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 PM PST THIS 
EVENING...
...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH 
SATURDAY EVENING...

* WHAT...For the Winter Weather Advisory, snow. Additional snow 
  accumulations between 2 and 4 inches. For the Winter Storm Watch, 
  heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 10 and 24 
  inches possible. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Holden Village, Stehekin, and Stevens Pass.

* WHEN...For the Winter Weather Advisory, until 10 PM PST this 
  evening. For the Winter Storm Watch, from Friday evening through 
  Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The 
  hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening and Friday 
  morning commutes. Travel will be very difficult to impossible late 
  Friday through Saturday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Persons should consider delaying all travel Friday night through 
Saturday. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme 
caution. Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, 
including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, 
shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid 
kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you 
become stranded.

&&

$$

IDZ001-101000-
/O.EXB.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1200Z-211212T1200Z/
Northern Panhandle-
Including the cities of Eastport, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry,
Athol, Schweitzer Mountain Road, and Priest River
245 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE FRIDAY NIGHT THROUGH LATE 
SATURDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 
  8 inches in the valleys and 10 and 23 inches possible in the 
  mountains. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Eastport, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, Athol, Schweitzer 
  Mountain Road, and Priest River.

* WHEN...From late Friday night through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

WAZ047-049-101000-
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
Central Chelan County-Western Okanogan County-
Including the cities of Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow,
Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Conconully, and Mazama
245 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH 
SATURDAY EVENING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 
  7 inches possible in the valleys and 8 to 18 inches possible in 
  the mountains. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow, Twisp, Loup Loup 
  Pass, Conconully, and Mazama.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS...Snow will make for difficult travel conditions through 
  Thursday evening. Heavy snow for Friday night through Saturday 
  could result in very difficult to impossible travel conditions. 
  Travel over Stevens Pass is not advised during this period of 
  heavy snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

CD
016 
WWUS46 KOTX 100542
WSWOTX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Spokane WA
942 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...HEAVY SNOW FRIDAY NIGHT THROUGH LATE SATURDAY...

.Snow showers will continue over the Central Panhandle Mountains 
this evening and come to an end tonight.  A winter storm will spread 
snow  into the Cascades Friday afternoon...with snow becoming heavy 
Friday night through late Saturday across Northern Washington and 
North Idaho. Travel will be very difficult over Stevens Pass and 
Lookout Pass during this winter storm. Snow is expected to decrease 
overnight Saturday into Sunday.

WAZ048-101600-
/O.EXP.KOTX.WW.Y.0038.000000T0000Z-211210T0600Z/
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
Western Chelan County-
Including the cities of Holden Village, Stehekin, and Stevens
Pass
942 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH 
SATURDAY EVENING...
...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY WILL EXPIRE AT 10 PM PST THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...For the Winter Storm Watch, heavy snow possible. Total snow 
  accumulations between 10 and 24 inches possible. Winds could gust 
  as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Holden Village, Stehekin, and Stevens Pass.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Travel 
  will be very difficult to impossible late Friday through Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Slow down and use caution while traveling. 
  The latest road
  conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
  calling 5 1 1.


PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Persons should consider delaying travel Friday night into Saturday. 
If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. 
Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such 
items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets 
and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything 
else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.

&&

$$

IDZ004-101600-
/O.CON.KOTX.WW.Y.0038.000000T0000Z-211210T0800Z/
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1200Z-211212T1200Z/
Central Panhandle Mountains-
Including the cities of Fourth Of July Pass, Wallace, Osburn,
Dobson Pass, Kellogg, Fernwood, St. Maries, Lookout Pass, Mullan,
and Pinehurst
942 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT PST 
TONIGHT...
...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE FRIDAY NIGHT 
THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...For the Winter Weather Advisory, Snow. Additional snow 
  accumulations up to one inch. For the Winter Storm Watch, heavy 
  snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 8 inches 
  valleys and 10 to 20 inches in the mountains.  Winds could gust as 
  high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Fourth Of July Pass, Wallace, Osburn, Dobson Pass, 
  Kellogg, Fernwood, St. Maries, Lookout Pass, Mullan, and Pinehurst.

* WHEN...For the Winter Weather Advisory, until Midnight PST 
  tonight. For the Winter Storm Watch, from late Friday night 
  through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Winter travel conditions are expected tonight with light 
  snow and potential for icy conditions.   Travel could be very 
  difficult late Friday through Saturday with periods of moderate to 
  heavy snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

WAZ047-049-101600-
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
Central Chelan County-Western Okanogan County-
Including the cities of Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow,
Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Conconully, and Mazama
942 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH 
SATURDAY EVENING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 
  7 inches possible in the valleys and 8 to 18 inches possible in 
  the mountains. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow, Twisp, Loup Loup 
  Pass, Conconully, and Mazama.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS...Snow will make for difficult travel conditions through 
  Thursday evening. Heavy snow for Friday night through Saturday 
  could result in very difficult to impossible travel conditions. 
  Travel over Stevens Pass is not advised during this period of 
  heavy snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

IDZ001-101600-
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1200Z-211212T1200Z/
Northern Panhandle-
Including the cities of Eastport, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry,
Athol, Schweitzer Mountain Road, and Priest River
942 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE FRIDAY NIGHT 
THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 
  8 inches in the valleys and 10 and 20 inches possible in the 
  mountains. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph and locally stronger 
  on the higher peaks.

* WHERE...Eastport, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, Athol, Schweitzer 
  Mountain Road, and Priest River.

* WHEN...From late Friday night through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult late Friday through 
  Saturday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

SB
480 
WWUS46 KOTX 100744
WSWOTX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Spokane WA
1144 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

IDZ004-101330-
/O.EXP.KOTX.WW.Y.0038.000000T0000Z-211210T0800Z/
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1200Z-211212T1200Z/
Central Panhandle Mountains-
Including the cities of Fourth Of July Pass, Wallace, Osburn,
Dobson Pass, Kellogg, Fernwood, St. Maries, Lookout Pass, Mullan,
and Pinehurst
1144 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE FRIDAY NIGHT 
THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT...
...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY WILL EXPIRE AT MIDNIGHT PST TONIGHT...

* WHAT...Light snow showers will continue through the night, but 
  accumulations will be light and therefore the winter weather 
  advisory has been allowed to expire.
  Heavy snow possible Friday night through Saturday night. Total 
  snow accumulations between 5 and 8 inches valleys and 10 to 20 
  inches in the mountains. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Fourth Of July Pass, Wallace, Osburn, Dobson Pass, 
  Kellogg, Fernwood, St. Maries, Lookout Pass, Mullan, and Pinehurst.

* WHEN...From late Friday night through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Winter travel conditions are expected tonight with light 
  snow and potential for icy conditions.  Travel could be very 
  difficult late Friday through Saturday with periods of moderate to 
  heavy snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

WAZ047>049-101330-
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
Central Chelan County-Western Chelan County-Western Okanogan
County-
Including the cities of Mazama, Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth,
Methow, Holden Village, Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Stehekin,
Conconully, and Stevens Pass
1144 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH 
SATURDAY EVENING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 
  7 inches possible in the valleys and 8 to 18 inches possible in 
  the mountains. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Mazama, Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow, Holden 
  Village, Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Stehekin, Conconully, and Stevens 
  Pass.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS...Heavy snow for Friday night through Saturday could 
  result in very difficult to impossible travel conditions. Travel 
  over Stevens Pass is not advised during this period of heavy snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

IDZ001-101330-
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1200Z-211212T1200Z/
Northern Panhandle-
Including the cities of Eastport, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry,
Athol, Schweitzer Mountain Road, and Priest River
1144 PM PST Thu Dec 9 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE FRIDAY NIGHT 
THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 
  8 inches in the valleys and 10 and 20 inches possible in the 
  mountains. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph and locally stronger 
  on the higher peaks.

* WHERE...Eastport, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, Athol, Schweitzer 
  Mountain Road, and Priest River.

* WHEN...From late Friday night through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult late Friday through 
  Saturday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

LN
190 
WWUS46 KOTX 101044
WSWOTX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Spokane WA
244 AM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...HEAVY SNOW FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH EARLY SUNDAY MORNING...

.A winter storm will spread snow into the Cascades Friday 
afternoon...with snow becoming heavy Friday evening through early 
Sunday morning across Northern Washington and North Idaho. Travel 
will be very difficult over Stevens Pass and Lookout Pass during 
this winter storm. Snow is expected to decrease early Sunday.

WAZ047>049-102300-
/O.UPG.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T0600Z/
/O.NEW.KOTX.WS.W.0012.211211T0200Z-211212T1200Z/
Central Chelan County-Western Chelan County-Western Okanogan
County-
Including the cities of Mazama, Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth,
Methow, Holden Village, Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Stehekin,
Conconully, and Stevens Pass
244 AM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 4 AM PST 
SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 
  7 inches in the valleys and 10 to 20 inches possible in 
  the mountains. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Mazama, Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Holden Village, 
  Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Stehekin and Stevens Pass.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to 4 AM PST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Heavy snow for Friday night through Saturday night could 
  result in very difficult to impossible travel conditions. Travel 
  over Stevens Pass is not advised during this period of heavy snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

WAZ037-102300-
/O.EXB.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1800Z-211212T0000Z/
Northeast Mountains-
Including the cities of Chewelah, Colville, Northport, Flowery
Trail Road, Orin-Rice Road, Newport, Deer Park,
Springdale-Hunters Road, and Kettle Falls
244 AM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH 
SATURDAY AFTERNOON...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations 2 to 4 inches 
  possible in the valleys...with up to 7 inches towards the Idaho 
  border. 7 to 12 inches is possible in the mountains. Winds will be 
  gusty, especially over higher terrain.

* WHERE...Chewelah, Colville, Northport, Flowery Trail Road, 
  Orin-Rice Road, Newport, Deer Park, Springdale-Hunters Road, and 
  Kettle Falls.

* WHEN...From Saturday morning through Saturday afternoon.

* IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

IDZ001-004-102300-
/O.EXT.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T1200Z/
Northern Panhandle-Central Panhandle Mountains-
Including the cities of Fourth Of July Pass, Eastport, Sandpoint,
Wallace, Osburn, Dobson Pass, Bonners Ferry, Mullan, Athol,
Kellogg, St. Maries, Fernwood, Lookout Pass, Pinehurst,
Schweitzer Mountain Road, and Priest River
244 AM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM THIS EVENING THROUGH LATE 
SATURDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 
  8 inches in the valleys and 10 and 20 inches possible in the 
  mountains. Temperatures will warm Saturday afternoon with snow 
  changing to rain in many of the valleys. The mountains will remain 
  snowing. Winds will be gusty, especially over the higher terrain.

* WHERE...Fourth Of July Pass, Eastport, Sandpoint, Wallace, Osburn, 
  Dobson Pass, Bonners Ferry, Mullan, Athol, Spirit Lake, Kellogg, 
  St. Maries, Fernwood, Lookout Pass, Pinehurst, Schweitzer Mountain 
  Road, and Priest River.

* WHEN...From this evening through late Saturday night.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult this evening through 
  Saturday night.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

&&

$$

LN
346 
WWUS46 KOTX 102231
WSWOTX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Spokane WA
231 PM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...HEAVY SNOW FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH EARLY SUNDAY MORNING...

.A winter storm will spread increasing snow into the region through 
Saturday morning...with snow becoming heavy Friday evening through 
early Sunday morning across the Cascades, far NE Washington, and 
North Idaho. Travel will be very difficult over Stevens Pass and 
Lookout Pass during this winter storm. Snow is expected to decrease 
early Sunday.

IDZ001-004-111415-
/O.UPG.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T0600Z-211212T1200Z/
/O.EXB.KOTX.WS.W.0012.211211T0600Z-211212T1200Z/
Northern Panhandle-Central Panhandle Mountains-
Including the cities of Fourth Of July Pass, Eastport, Sandpoint,
Wallace, Osburn, Dobson Pass, Bonners Ferry, Mullan, Athol,
Kellogg, St. Maries, Fernwood, Lookout Pass, Pinehurst,
Schweitzer Mountain Road, and Priest River
231 PM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 4 AM 
PST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Drifting and blowing snow in the 
  mountains. Total snow accumulations 4 to 8 inches valleys Friday 
  night into Saturday morning and in the mountains 1 to 2 FEET 
  through Sunday morning. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph.

* WHERE...Fourth Of July Pass, Eastport, Sandpoint, Wallace, Osburn, 
  Dobson Pass, Bonners Ferry, Mullan, Athol, Kellogg, St. Maries, 
  Fernwood, Lookout Pass, Pinehurst, Schweitzer Mountain Road, and 
  Priest River.

* WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 4 AM PST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult.  

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Valley accumulations will be through Saturday 
  morning as temperatures warm above freezing by Saturday afternoon.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in 
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for 
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

WAZ037-111415-
/O.UPG.KOTX.WS.A.0007.211211T1800Z-211212T0000Z/
/O.EXB.KOTX.WS.W.0012.211211T0600Z-211211T2000Z/
Northeast Mountains-
Including the cities of Chewelah, Colville, Northport, Flowery
Trail Road, Orin-Rice Road, Newport, Deer Park,
Springdale-Hunters Road, and Kettle Falls
231 PM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO NOON 
PST SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Drifting and blowing snow in the 
  mountains. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches in the 
  valleys and 10 to 16 inches in the mountains. Winds gusting as 
  high as 50 mph.

* WHERE...Chewelah, Colville, Northport, Flowery Trail Road, 
  Orin-Rice Road, Newport, Deer Park, Springdale-Hunters Road, and 
  Kettle Falls.

* WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to Noon PST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. Gusty winds could bring 
  down tree branches.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in 
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for 
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

WAZ031-111415-
/O.EXB.KOTX.WS.W.0012.211211T0600Z-211212T1200Z/
Northeast Blue Mountains-
Including the cities of Cloverland Road
231 PM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 4 AM 
PST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Blowing and drifting snow. Total snow 
  accumulation 12 to 18 inches. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph.

* WHERE...Cloverland Road.

* WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 4 AM PST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in 
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for 
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

WAZ047>049-111415-
/O.CON.KOTX.WS.W.0012.211211T0200Z-211212T1200Z/
Central Chelan County-Western Chelan County-Western Okanogan
County-
Including the cities of Mazama, Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth,
Methow, Holden Village, Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Stehekin,
Conconully, and Stevens Pass
231 PM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 
4 AM PST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 
  7 inches in the valleys except 8 to 14 inches Stehekin and Mazama 
  areas. In the mountains 2 to 3 FEET along the Cascade crest. 2 to 
  6 inches for Loup Loup and Blewett Pass areas. Winds gusting as 
  high as 40 mph with local blowing and drifting snow in the 
  mountains.

* WHERE...Mazama, Winthrop, Plain, Leavenworth, Methow, Holden 
  Village, Twisp, Loup Loup Pass, Stehekin, Conconully, and Stevens 
  Pass.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to 4 AM PST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very challenging especially over the 
  Cascade passes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in 
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for 
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

IDZ003-111415-
/O.NEW.KOTX.WW.Y.0039.211211T0600Z-211211T1800Z/
Idaho Palouse-
Including the cities of Potlatch, Moscow, Plummer, and Genesee
231 PM PST Fri Dec 10 2021

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 10 
AM PST SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 5 
  inches. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph with local drifting snow.

* WHERE...Potlatch, Moscow, Plummer, and Genesee.

* WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 10 AM PST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road 
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by 
calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

JW

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before this winter storm watch went out, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Spokane, WA wrote its last area forecast discussion before this winter storm watch went out at Dec 8, 9:39 PM PST, 5 hours 6 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Dec 8, 9:39 PM PST, 5 hours 6 minutes before
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Spokane WA
939 PM PST Wed Dec 8 2021

.SYNOPSIS...
Gusty west winds will diminish this evening and temperatures will
tumble into the 20's overnight. Intermittent mountain snow
showers are expected the next several days leading to winter
driving conditions at the passes in the Cascades and north Idaho.
A strong storm system over the weekend will produce heavy mountain
snow, snow transitioning to rain in the valleys, and windy
conditions.

&&

.DISCUSSION...

Tonight: The cold front that moved across the Inland Northwest
this morning will be well into eastern Montana by early evening
and into North Dakota by midnight. Our westerly pressure gradient
will relax around sunset following the rapid departure of the
front. Look for winds to subside into the 10 to 15 mph range by
mid evening. Snow showers over the Idaho Panhandle will also
undergo a decreasing trend this evening as the upslope flow
relaxes. For the Cascades and Stevens Pass, periods of
accumulating snow will persist through the night. At this time, it
looks like mainly light accumulations at Stevens Pass until the
arrival of a cold upper level trough early in the morning.

Thursday: The arrival of the aforementioned cold upper trough on
tomorrow will significantly steepen lapse rates over the Inland
Northwest leading to an abundance of snow showers especially in
orographically favored areas. Mid-level west/northwest flow will
favor the Cascade Crest and mountains of the central and southern
Idaho Panhandle. For Stevens Pass, a burst of 4 to 8 inches in the
morning looks likely with a potentially favorable trajectory for
snow enhancement due the Puget Sound Convergence Zone. For the
Mountains of 4 to 8 inches looks like a good bet during the
afternoon and evening including Lookout Pass. The Blue Mountains
and Winchester/Craigmont areas will also have a good shot of a
couple inches of snow Thursday afternoon/evening.

Friday: The continuation of onshore flow Friday will perpetuate
mountain snow, but amounts should be lighter under a flat upper
ridge and the loss of our steep lapse rates. Look for southerly
winds to gradually increase through the day and into the night
ahead of a strong frontal system that will arrive on Saturday.
Overnight temperatures on Friday will be important in determining
precipitation type and eventual snow amounts on Saturday. /GKoch

Saturday and Sunday: Our next system arrives Saturday morning as
the low begins to drop south from the Gulf of Alaska. This will
bring moisture and southerly winds into the Pacific NW. The system
will be accompanied by significant precipitation, especially
heavy mountain snow. This weekend's snow will likely be the
heaviest in the mountains that we've had this winter. The 6 hour
snowfall rates are impressive, with the chance for 15-20" snow
accumulation in the Cascades and northern ID Panhandle mountains
(from 12Z Sat - 12Z Sun). This will be concerning for any travel
across Steven Pass. The strong southerly winds will contribute to
warming temperatures in the Basin, West Plains, and most valleys
and low lands. This will create a chance for mixed precipitation
or only rain. Still uncertainty with snow accumulation, if any, in
the lower elevations, especially the West Plains. Some models are
indicating too much snowfall for the elevating temperatures.
Locations in the West Plains and Basin, such as Spokane,
Davenport, and Ritzville, will likely receive less than 1" of
snow. However, confidence is still low.

Winds will be gusty on Saturday, especially across the Columbia
Basin and West Plains. There is the potential for gusts to reach
35-40KTS across much of Lincoln and Adams counties. These winds
will bring the warmer air, from the south, increasing temperatures
to above normal highs. High temperatures will rise into the 40s
for many lower elevations, especially across southeastern WA and
southern ID Panhandle. Winds will weaken, but remain breezy on
Sunday. Temperatures will cool slightly, but will still remain
above normal.

Snow will linger in the mountains on Sunday, but with much lighter
snowfall rates. There is a chance for light mixed precipitation in
much of the Panhandle and northern valleys during the day Sunday.

Monday through Wednesday: Unsettled weather will continue with a
chance for precipitation and near average temperatures as the
trough begins to dig into the Pacific NW coastline. Snow levels
should support snow in the mountains, mixed precipitation in most
valleys, and low land rain or mixed precip. JS

&&

.AVIATION...
06Z TAFs: A cold upper trough will spread across the Cascades
Thursday morning leading to an increase in snow showers over the
Cascades and northern Idaho. Scattered snow showers are expected
from late morning into the evening for the airports of north
Idaho and the eastern third of Washington. /KD

&&

.PRELIMINARY POINT TEMPS/POPS...
Spokane        24  34  22  34  32  43 /   0  30  20  10  30  70
Coeur d'Alene  24  33  23  34  31  43 /  10  40  30  20  40  80
Pullman        25  33  25  35  33  41 /   0  50  60  10  20  60
Lewiston       31  40  31  42  34  48 /  10  40  40  10  10  50
Colville       18  33  15  31  27  42 /   0  30  10  10  50  80
Sandpoint      23  31  23  31  30  39 /  10  50  40  20  80 100
Kellogg        25  31  25  31  28  40 /  20  70  70  50  60  90
Moses Lake     25  40  22  39  34  49 /   0  10  10   0  20  20
Wenatchee      26  41  28  41  29  46 /  10  10  10  10  20  60
Omak           23  37  20  35  28  44 /   0  10   0   0  50  70

&&

.OTX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
ID...None.
WA...Winter Storm Warning until 10 AM PST Thursday for Western Chelan
     County.

&&
Hazardous weather outlook, Dec 8, 7:43 AM PST, 19 hours 2 minutes before
Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Spokane WA
743 AM PST Wed Dec 8 2021

WAZ047>049-091500-
Central Chelan County-Western Chelan County-
Western Okanogan County-
743 AM PST Wed Dec 8 2021

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of North Central
Washington.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

Snow heavy at times with snow rates of up to 1 inch per hour this
morning will result in very difficult travel over Stevens Pass.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...THURSDAY THROUGH TUESDAY

Steady snow at the Cascade crest on Thursday will result in
winter travel conditions with snow covered roads at times over
Stevens Pass. A winter storm is likely for the weekend with
periods of heavy snow.

IDZ001-WAZ037-038-091500-
Northern Panhandle-Northeast Mountains-Okanogan Highlands-
743 AM PST Wed Dec 8 2021

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of North Idaho...
North Central Washington and Northeast Washington.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...THURSDAY THROUGH TUESDAY

A winter storm is expected for the weekend with the potential for
heavy wet snow in the mountains and northern mountain valleys.
Difficult travel conditions with snow covered roads Saturday into
Saturday night. Heavy wet snow may also lead to tree damage and
power outages.

WAZ034>036-041-043-044-091500-
Moses Lake Area-Upper Columbia Basin-Spokane Area-Wenatchee Area-
Okanogan Valley-Waterville Plateau-
743 AM PST Wed Dec 8 2021

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of Central
Washington...East Central Washington...North Central Washington
and Northeast Washington.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...THURSDAY THROUGH TUESDAY

A strong storm system will bring a wintry mix to the northern
valleys and windy conditions. Strong cross winds and power outages
will be possible.

IDZ002>004-026-027-WAZ031>033-091500-
Coeur d'Alene Area-Idaho Palouse-Central Panhandle Mountains-
Lewiston Area-Lewis and Southern Nez Perce Counties-
Northeast Blue Mountains-Lower Garfield and Asotin Counties-
Washington Palouse-
743 AM PST Wed Dec 8 2021

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of North Idaho...
North Central Idaho and Southeast Washington.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...THURSDAY THROUGH TUESDAY

Light to moderate snow will be possible on Thursday. Best chances
for moderate snow accumulations is expected in the Central
Panhandle Mountains. Interstate 90 may become snow covered at
times between 4th of July Pass and Lookout Pass.

In addition, a winter storm is expected for the weekend with the
potential for heavy wet snow in the mountains. Difficult travel
conditions possible along Interstate 90 Saturday into Saturday
night. Heavy wet snow may also lead to tree damage and power
outages.

The office that day

Everything else NWS Spokane, WA issued on the same UTC day.

IssuedProductOfficeCountiesLasted
Dec 9, 2:45 AM PSTWinter Weather AdvisoryOTXChelan21 hr

Nearby

Winter Storm Watches in Idaho, 2021Winter Storm Watches in Washington, 2021Every winter storm watch in 2021

Sources

The product and its follow-ups from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center text; the sounding from the Mesonet's radiosonde archive; radar from the NEXRAD Level II archive.