Heavy snow piles up in Cascades

SEATTLE — A storm packing a foot or more of new snow is pounding the Cascades, piling new accumulations on top of the 1 to 2 feet of snow that has fallen in the last two days, said forecasters in the KIRO 7 Weather Center.

"Heavy mountain snow continues this morning, with a winter storm warning in effect for the Cascades," wrote KIRO 7 Meteorologist Brian Monahan. "In addition to the 14" of snow that has already fallen at Snoqualmie Pass since (Thursday) morning, an additional foot is possible before snow tapers off overnight."

Drivers are facing winter driving condition in the mountain passes.

The Transportation Department required chains on all vehicles early Friday on Interstate 90 at Snoqualmie Pass, the state's main east-west highway. The DOT later changed that to a traction tire advisory for Snoqualmie Pass, as well as for Stephens and White passes.

The White Pass ski resort opens Friday.

With colder temperatures in Eastern Washington, the Weather Service said some snow would likely accumulate Friday on lower elevations in the eastern third of the state, including Spokane.

Forecasters expect drier conditions Saturday.

KIRO