UPDATE: The NWS issues blizzard warning until early Thursday morning

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At 2:18 p.m. on Wednesday, the NWS Seattle WA released an updated blizzard warning valid from 6 p.m. until Thursday 5 a.m. for Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit counties and Cascades of Snohomish and Northern King counties.

The NWS states, "Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations 5 to 10 inches. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph."

"Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Strong winds could cause tree damage," says the NWS. "Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle. Prepare for possible power outages. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Prepare for possible power outages. Slow down and use caution while traveling. Prepare for possible power outages."

This warning is in effect until Thursday at 5 a.m.

What to do during a blizzard warning

Blizzard warnings are issued by the NWS for frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more. A blizzard warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely, leading to whiteout conditions making travel extremely difficult. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help to arrive.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published March 9, 2026 at 1:45 PM.