Lack of snow continues into early January

The National Weather Service today said the lack of snowfall this season is likely to continue. Travel conditions will be good during daylight hours today under partly sunny skies and a high of 34. However, there is a 30 percent chance of snow and possibly freezing drizzle on Friday from a weak weather system crossing the region. Highs should get to the mid-30s with lows in the 20s. Freezing drizzle was reportedly occurring to the north of Spokane this morning. Slippery conditions were reported at Diamond Lake along U.S. Highway 2 in Pend Oreille County. Foggy conditions are likely late at night and early in the morning during the coming week, which should remain mostly dry. Forecasters said that the 6.5 inches of snow recorded at Spokane International Airport so far this season ranks as the 16th driest period since records were established in 1889. This season’s snowfall amount is 15.6 inches below normal. An air stagnation advisory is in effect for the Spokane region and much of Eastern Washington with the exception of the Palouse. Air quality in Spokane was measured in the moderate range today. No burning restrictions were in effect. The long-range forecast for January, February and March is calling for colder-than-normal temperatures and normal precipitation.