SPOT WEATHER FORECAST

1/6/2009 Weather Discussion: A weather feature known as the Pineapple Express will pound the PNW with heavy rain and high mountain snow for the next 36-48 hours. Could be record setting with some models showing storm totals of 10-20” of water by Thursday morning. To put that into perspective, Hurricane Katrina dumped 10” of water in 48 hours. Long-term models show the stream of moisture being cut off by building high pressure late Thurs/Friday. The weekend looks dry for now. Forecast from Tuesday 4pm to Wednesday 4am Precipitation 2-4” in. Water 4-6 in. Snow Temperatures Low 32 High 36 Winds 5-15 SW gusty Forecast for Wednesday 4am to 4pm Precipitation 2-4” in. Water 4-6 in. Snow Temperatures Low 32 High 36 Winds 5-15 SW gusty TRENDS AND TIMING Precipitation: Heavy snow will turn to heavy rain in the base area and reach the higher mountain by this evening. Heavy rain is expected through tomorrow night. Cold air aloft mixing will bring periods of rain snow mix on the higher mountain. Freezing levels: The freezing levels will trend up to 5000’ by this evening and hover between 4500’ and 5000’ until a cold front moves through early Thursday morning. Winds: Models show high SW winds of + 40mph, however we are usually shielded by the mountains when the wind comes from the SW. So I am not expecting huge winds to hit Stevens with this impressive storm.