SPOT WEATHER FORECAST

12/26/2008 Weather Discussion: Snow will increase today as a major winter storm bears down on the PNW. Higher freezing levels and high winds will also be in the mix as this system pushes through tonight and tomorrow. Long-term models show cooler temperatures with a nice stream of moisture flowing into the mountains well into next week. Forecast from Friday 4pm to Saturday 4am Precipitation .5-.75 in. Water 8-12” in. Snow Temperatures Low 26 High 36 Winds 10 -20 W Gust 30+ Forecast for Saturday 4am to 4pm Precipitation .5 -.75 in. Water 6-8” in. Snow Temperatures Low 24 High 36 Winds 10 -20 Gust 40 TRENDS AND TIMING Precipitation: Snow will steadily increase today and become moderate to heavy after 4pm. Snow will become wet and heavy early tomorrow morning as a warm spike moves through. It will be possible to get a snow rain mix between 4am and noon. The precipitation should be all snow sometime afternoon. A Convergence Zone will develop tomorrow morning enhancing precipitation. Freezing levels: Freezing levels will trend up from 2000’ to 5000’ by 7am tomorrow morning. This spike in temps should be short live with freezing levels dropping back down below pass level by noon or soon after. Winds: Strong frontal winds will also accompany this system. The wind should start to kick in around midnight. Winds will start out as SW and swing west through the early morning hours. A Puget Sound Convergence will also develop tomorrow morning bringing consistent winds. Winds are expected to slowly taper off by 4pm.