Before
top of page

Dec 14- Snow is back! Expect 6–10" Wednesday ❄️

  • Writer: Andrea Hamilton
    Andrea Hamilton
  • 25 minutes ago
  • 4 min read

Hello Skier and Snowboarders,

Short Term Forecast


We start the week with one more, and likely the last, Atmosphere River for this year. For Monday, it will be windy with moderate to heavy rain at times at 7000'. On Tuesday, snow levels start to drop so that we can expect some light snow for the mid to upper slopes.


Wednesday, we'll have lower snow levels and expect 6" to 10" of snow. This is highlighted in the first map below. A few models suggest slightly higher amounts. This will start the long-awaited snow parade that should usher in the anticipated opening (soon we hope) of our ski resorts. Look at the extended outlook.


Highlights

  • Monday: Rain heavy at times and windy

  • Tuesday: Snow levels lower 1 to 3" of snow for the mid to upper slope

  • Wednesday: 6" to 10." (map 1)


Extended Outlook Thursday, Dec. 17 to Sunday, Dec 21

All forecast models keep the cool air in place, and we expect snow levels to stay close to 3000' over this period. So, any precipitation will be snow, and it will remain cold enough for the resorts that can make snow to add to the snowpack.


Map two is snowfall for 24 hours ending Sunday morning, Dec. 21, of 6" to 10." Of course, this is in the extended, but we are optimistic that it will be cold and have periods of snow.


Does anyone have plans over Christmas? The good news is that the cold pattern will remain over the Pacific Northwest, along with above average precipitation.


We will update you on Thursday, December 18, with the continued good news.


Michael Fagin

Meteorologist


Slopes - Elevation General Guidelines

  • Lower Slopes - Under 4000'

  • Mid-Slopes - 4000 to 5500'

  • Upper-Slopes - Above 5500'


ree

ree

P.S. Don’t miss:

  • Sponsor Shoutouts - Holiday gift giving.

  • Larry's Whistler Field Report

  • Event: Meet Larry, Wed, Dec 17th, in Kirkland.

  • Event: For the Ladies. Countdown to Winter, A Creative Night for Outdoorsy Women

Field report – Whistler, British Columbia (Dec 1-12)

"New snow and cold are coming!"

 

Larry just wrapped up 10 days skiing Whistler. From variable conditions to strong alpine coverage plus photos from the trip. Check it out.


Shop our Sponsors:

The perfect gift comes in many forms — a box, a gift card, or an unforgettable experience.


Health & Wellness


Food, Drink & Community

  • The Hall. Sports bar, family and dog friendly. Brunch in Kirkland Sat & Sun. Great food, beer, people and community. Events list

  • Vertical Grind. Gift giving essentials, order now! Stock up with the gift of coffee for your Snow-Loving friends. Adventure inspired: First Ascent, Open Road, and Switchback. Shop local and support Powder People.


Gear & Apparel

Travel, Safety & Resorts



Warmth & Essentials

  • IGNIK Outdoors. New RIPPLES rechargeable hand warmers. Put these next to your heated socks and vest. Save 25% code: POWDER25. Cool propane camp stoves.


ree

Meet the Oracle

Wed, Dec 17 starting at 6:00


The Powder Poobah, in person! Talk snow with the Larry and get the latest winter outlook. Experience the best Après vibe in town.


Moss Bay Hall at 111 Central Way in Kirkland.

Family and dog friendly.





Free to attend — please RSVP so we can plan swag. Food and drinks are buy-your-own.


ree

Countdown to Winter

Thurs, Dec 18, 5:30 to 8:30

A Creative Night for Outdoorsy Women


• Dress up some wood ornaments at two stations:

Woodburning and Mod Podge magic.

• Totes + Hats- Create a tote or hat to take home.


All ages welcome. Dog friendly.



Free to attend — please RSVP so we can plan materials and seating. Food and drinks are buy-your-own. Projects materials fee (up to $10).



Thanks for reading.

Andrea


FYI: Sign up to get a text message when the Powder Alert goes out.


ree

Powder Poobah Resources: NWAC, WSDOT, chains, goggle lens, and more.


Seattle Times Winter Update — Gregory Scruggs: Resort news, Nordic notes, Backcountry huts, and more.

If this landed here by friend-magic, subscribe and stay in the loop.

We send usually on Sundays and Thursdays.



bottom of page