Weekend weather: Winter storm advisory calls for heavy snow

Snow and rain are expected through the end of this week and into the weekend as two Pacific storms wash over Washington.

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for the Spokane area Thursday extending through the night, predicting heavy snow in the mountains and “a messy wintry mix” at lower altitudes.

Thursday 2 to 4 inches of new snow could accumulate followed by an additional 1 to 3 inches Thursday night, according to the National Weather Service.

Snow and possibly freezing rain are expected Friday morning up until 1 p.m. A mix of rain and snow is predicted for the early afternoon. Temperatures should increase after 4 p.m. and rain is anticipated.

On Saturday there is a chance of rain and snow showers in the morning, according to the National Weather Service. It will be partly sunny with a high near 36 degrees.

Sunday is expected to be partly sunny with a high near 31 degrees.