Sloppy winter storm yields to sunshine this weekend

The next couple of days are expected to bring more heavy winter weather with rain, snow and freezing rain likely throughout the region.

The type of precipitation that falls depends a lot on location and timing.

An “atmospheric river” of moisture-laden air is going to continue flowing onshore from the Pacific Ocean until Friday night.

Heavy snow was expected near the Cascades, western Columbia Basin and northern mountains.

A winter weather advisory was in effect until 4 p.m. on Thursday in the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene areas.

Freezing rain could be a problem in the heart of the Columbia Basin from Sprague to Moses Lake.

To the south, the Palouse down to Lewiston stand the greatest chance of rain and melting snow and ice.

Ice dams along creeks and streams could become troublesome if thawing weather causes big chunks to break up and then clog the channels, leading to potential for small-scale flooding.

Big pools of water may also show up again on urban streets as well as low spots along highways in rural areas.

High temperatures in Spokane should push past the 40 degree mark on Thursday and Friday before a weak cold front puts a little more chill over the region with highs in the middle and upper 30s.

Lows should still be in the 20s for overnight freezes of slush and water, continuing the treacherous conditions for vehicles and pedestrians.

Breezy winds will accompany the storm.

Higher pressure works its way into the Pacific Northwest over the weekend for a break in the repeated snow-rain events.

Sunny to mostly sunny skies are expected through Tuesday, although areas near mountains may see clouds on Saturday.

Snow is expected from the incoming storm above 4,000 feet.

Through Tuesday, Spokane International Airport has recorded 47.5 inches of snowfall, which is 12 inches above normal. Last year at this time, Spokane recorded 33.6 inches of snow. The snowpack at the airport on Tuesday was 10 inches.