Winter storm warning issued for region

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene area through Thursday morning. The snow falling over the Spokane area this afternoon will continue through the night with potentially 4 to 9 inches of accumulation. Snow intensity will increase this evening and may create poor driving conditions during tonight’s commute especially with drifting snow on the West Plains. Thursday’s morning commute could be tough as well with snow covering the roadway, but National Weather Service meteorologists expect most precipitation to decline by 7 a.m. The majority of snow will fall on the valley floors, according to NWS meteorologists. The Coeur d’Alene, Upper Columbia Basin and Spokane areas are the focal points for their winter weather advisory. Expect more snow in the higher elevations of northeast Washington. NWS meteorologists expect blowing and drifting snow in the mountains of North Idaho as well, with 8-14 inches predicted in the valleys and 12 to 20 inches in the mountains.