Cold weather and snow expected for Inland Northwest

The first significant snowfall of the season is expected in lower elevations of the Inland Northwest tonight, possibly continuing through Friday afternoon. The National Weather Service issued an advisory this morning that up to three inches of snow are expected in the Spokane area and the surrounding region and up to four inches in the mountain areas of North Idaho. NWS meteorologist Rocco Pelatti says the low pressure system is dropping over the region from the Gulf of Alaska and moving to the northwest. The low pressure system will bring lows in the 30s this evening with northeast winds of about 10-15 mph chilling the temperature into the 20s overnight. Gusts of about 25 mph are expected in the Coeur d’Alene area. Temperatures are only expected to rise to the 30s on Friday. Pelatti says this system is similar to the cyclogenesis systems that happen east of the Rockies, but it won’t be as serious because of the lack of moisture. Drivers should be cautious this evening as conditions begin to decline on roadways. A mix of rain and snow overnight could create slushy conditions making it hazardous for commuters and limiting visibility.