Snow forecast for mountains, rain for lowlands

Snow is in the forecast for the higher elevations of the Olympics and North Cascades, and rain will continue to fall in the lowlands through the rest of today.

The National Weather Service says up to two feet of new snow are possible by tonight above 5,400 feet, creating avalanche danger and hazardous conditions for climbers or hikers in the backcountry.

Mountain passes above 3,500 feet, like Stevens Pass, could see up to three inches of snow. That also includes Chinook, Washington Pass and roads to Paradise and Hurricane Ridge.

"There's a good system that will bring rain and snow to the mountains," said Johnny Burg, with the Weather Service, adding that Snoqualmie Pass will see mostly rain.

The Weather Service says the strong low pressure system over the Northwest will bring cool, cloudy weather with a chance of showers through the weekend across Washington. That means rain is likely off and on through the weekend, with temperatures in the mid-50s to lower 60s.

Burg said the heaviest mountain snowfall will be today, and will taper off over the weekend.

"This is a little bit unusual for this time of year," he said. "We wanted to get the word out to people hiking. We'd hate to call search and rescue to get you off the mountain."