If you’re driving over the Cascades, be ready for snow

Forecasters are warning drivers to be ready for snow if they are headed out for the holiday, especially in and near the mountains.

The National Weather Service this week reminded motorists to get their vehicles in good working order and to have sufficient emergency supplies on hand.

A flashlight, ice scraper, snow brush, extra food and water, extra clothing or blankets, batteries, a charged up cell phone, traction devices and flares are among the items vehicles should have during winter travel.

Forecasters are calling for a series of Pacific frontal systems to cross the region over the next several days. Each of them is likely to bring snow to the mountain passes.

A mix of snow or rain is expected in lower elevations. Snow could cover the ground at lower elevations by this weekend, especially if it falls during the cooler hours overnight. However, temperatures above freezing would melt it quickly.

The coldest air and greatest chance of snow will be along the northern portions of Eastern Washington, mainly along and north of state Highway 20, which runs through Kettle Falls and Republic over Sherman Pass at 5,575 feet.

Heavy snow is possible in the Selkirk Mountains, Okanogan Valley and highlands and the North Cascades.

To the south of Highway 20, snow levels are likely to remain in the mountains at 3,000 to 4,000 feet in elevation.

The greatest precipitation should come in a pair of waves on Thursday.

A lesser storm is likely Friday night. Rain or snow showers should persist after that.

Gusty winds should accompany the storms across the region.