SNOQUALMIE, WA — The first real snowfall of the season has touched down on the high country in the Cascades, which of course includes the Snoqualmie Pass. Snowfall lasting all afternoon and evening on Sunday led to the pass being closed headed eastbound by night time.
Rain turned into snow on Sunday afternoon, leading to thick and slushy flakes, building up on I-90 and especially side roads.
At the Summit at Snoqualmie, the mountain ski lifts aren’t churning just yet, but businesses in the area are delighted to see some early snow.
Spencer Meckley, a bartender at The Commonwealth right next to the mountain, says it’s days like these, that begin their busier season — as drivers are forced to take it easy and pull over.
“We have truckers that are regulars. That go from the east to west coast, that stop here every time.” he said
And on a WSU Parents Weekend bringing many alums and families from western Washington this weekend, as the ‘Cougs hosted Toledo, it meant a nice pick-me-up for business.
“I mean currently we have six or seven families we’re serving from the WSU game, they say they always stop here as their little halfway point. That kind of patronage is what has contributed to our success here, and why we’re still standing.” he added.
Meanwhile, Seattle-area residents made their way up to the pass, just to get their fix of snow-gazing.
“It’s really nice to see this come this time of year, earlier than other years.” said Jason Pentzold, who lives in East Renton Highlands.
He and a group of friends brought their dog, to check out the snow and see the landscape.
“It wasn’t too bad, the roads are not terrible, I mean the pass is a little slushy, but not bad.” he said.
However, within just hours, after 10 p.m. on Sunday, the Pass was closed by WSDOT going eastbound.
“Chains required on all vehicles except all wheel drive, Oversize Vehicles Prohibited.” the report read.
“I-90 eastbound is closed at milepost 47, Denny Creek, five miles west of the summit due to vehicle spinouts blocking the roadway and adverse weather conditions. An estimated time to open the highway is not determined.” the site wrote.
The slightly earlier than usual snowfall, brings up the reminder that starting November 1, all drivers are mandated by law to have chains on hand in their vehicle while driving through any of Washington’s mountain passes, even if they’re not required on your tires for that specific day.
State Troopers could fine you up to $500 for a violation.
