Mixed precipitation falls on parts of Spokane on Sunday morning

A cold front swept through the Inland Northwest on Sunday morning, bringing with it some mixed precipitation that fell as snow pellets on some areas of the South Hill.

The National Weather Service in Spokane also received reports of thunder, and sustained winds exceeding 20 mph were reported at Spokane International Airport. By Sunday afternoon, the cold front had moved into the panhandle of North Idaho, where snowfall was forecast for many areas through Monday morning.

Jeff Cote, a meteorologist with the Weather Service in Spokane, said mixed precipitation was in the forecast and is always a possibility this time of year.

“I think it was what was expected,” Cote said. “We had mixed precipitation in the forecast. This time of year, there’s always a potential.”

Snow fell on Lookout Pass east of Mullan, Idaho, and visibility had dropped to less than a quarter mile as of just before 3 p.m. Pacific time on Sunday. The Weather Service had issued a Winter Weather Advisory for areas east of Coeur d’Alene lasting through 10 a.m. Monday, with snow expected to fall above 3,000 feet.

Traction tires were recommended for Snoqualmie Pass, with snow forecast overnight Sunday. Chains were required for passage over Stevens Pass, where snow was also expected totaling up to a foot.

Avista Utilities Corp. reported limited power outages near the Dishman Hills Natural Area south of Spokane Valley on Sunday afternoon affecting fewer than 40 customers. The cause was later reported to be a tree that fell on a power line.

Calmer conditions are expected Monday, with temperatures reaching the middle 40s and sunshine in the afternoon.