I-90 Closed at Snoqualmie Pass Amid Hazardous Winter Conditions
Snoqualmie Pass, Wash., January 6, 2026 – Interstate 90 east of the Snoqualmie Pass summit was closed multiple times on Tuesday due to multiple spinouts and collisions caused by heavy snowfall and icy roads. The Washington State Department of Transportation reported no scheduled reopening time initially, with the road reopening briefly before closing again. Travelers are advised to plan alternative routes, use chains, and exercise caution as avalanche danger remains high in the Cascades.
Road Closures and Traffic Updates
Eastbound I-90 closed at milepost 48 around 4:45 p.m. due to hazardous conditions, including spinouts and collisions near the summit. The road reopened just before 6:30 p.m. but closed again at milepost 47 shortly after 7 p.m., reopening around 7:30 p.m. with major delays. Westbound lanes remained open, but chains are required for all vehicles except all-wheel drive, and oversized vehicles are prohibited. Snow and slush cover the roadway, leading to long travel times. The I-90 off-ramp on southbound Interstate 405 is partially closed. WSDOT recommends checking their website for real-time updates and using alternative routes like Blewett Pass, where delays are also reported due to a crash.
Avalanche Risks and Weather Forecast
Avalanche danger is high in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie and North Cascades areas, with considerable danger near Winthrop and Leavenworth. A winter storm warning is in effect through Thursday evening, potentially bringing 2 to 4 feet of snow to the passes. Current weather at the summit shows 29°F with 100% humidity, patchy snow possible, and west-southwest winds at 6.8 mph. Forecasts predict rain today, snow tonight through Wednesday, with new snow accumulation of 12 to 18 inches possible Tuesday and 9 to 13 inches Wednesday. Northwest Avalanche Center reports loose dry avalanches and wind slabs on lee slopes. Officials urge conservative terrain choices and avoiding steep, exposed areas.
Key Facts and Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Weather at Summit | 29°F, 29.6 inHg barometer, 100% humidity, WSW winds 6.8 mph |
| Snowfall Totals (Recent) | 6 cm yesterday at Summit at Snoqualmie; up to 9 cm at nearby resorts |
| Travel Times (Ellensburg to North Bend, WB) | Distance: 78.56 miles; Average: 73 minutes; Current: 100 minutes (delayed) |
| Avalanche Danger | High in Snoqualmie and Stevens passes; considerable at upper/middle elevations |
| Forecast Snow Accumulation | 12-18 inches Tuesday; 9-13 inches Wednesday |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is I-90 at Snoqualmie Pass open now?
As of the latest updates on January 6, 2026, eastbound I-90 has reopened but is experiencing major delays. Westbound lanes are open with chain requirements. Check WSDOT for real-time status, as conditions can change quickly.
What should I do if I need to travel through Snoqualmie Pass?
Plan alternative routes, equip vehicles with chains (required except for all-wheel drive), reduce speed, and prepare for long delays. Avoid oversized vehicles. Monitor WSDOT website or app for alerts.
Are ski areas at Snoqualmie Pass open?
Alpental at Summit at Snoqualmie is scheduled to open on January 7, 2026. Check the resort’s mountain report for lift status, trail maps, and weather updates.
How dangerous are avalanches right now?
Avalanche danger is high in the Cascades, with loose dry avalanches and wind slabs reported. Avoid backcountry skiing without proper gear and training; heed Northwest Avalanche Center advisories.