Heavy Snow — Lower Columbia Basin, Washington

2019-02-04 · Lower Columbia Basin, Washington

Event narrative

Washington State Troopers reported a single vehicle rollover on Highway 395 north of Pasco due to speed and slippery road conditions. A 7 year old passenger was killed (indirect) in the crash. They were not wearing a seat belt.

Wider weather episode

A pair of storm systems brought significant snow to all elevations on the 3rd and 4th of February. Wraparound moisture from the first system brought 8 to 12 inches of snow to the Blue Mountains. Initial precipitation with the second system combined with lingering wraparound moisture brought between 3 and 13 inches to all elevations on the 4th of February. Over 200 accidents were reported due to slippery conditions. Interstate 82 between Yakima and Ellensburg was closed for an hour to clear multiple accidents.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 795577. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.