Editor’s note: This story is no longer being updated. Click here for the most up-to-date timeline for this weekend’s rainstorm.
SEATTLE - A sign that summer is truly ending: a fall-like front is expected to move into western Washington Friday bringing heavy rain, a chance of thunderstorms and the first high elevation snow in several months.
Widespread heavy rainfall and breezy conditions are expected for most of the western Washington lowlands Friday and Friday night, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Rainfall amounts through Friday night range from half an inch to over an inch in some areas, NWS said.
The NWS tweeted Monday its rainfall predictions showing the Seattle metro area could get as much as 1.5 inches of rain. The NWS said the heavy rain may lead to water on roadways and poor visibility, with isolated flooding possible.
But it's not over Friday night. The fall weather will continue through the weekend.
Scattered showers, heavy at times, are expected Saturday and Sunday coupled with a chance of thunderstorms. The NWS said the thunderstorms may produce lightning, gusty winds and small hail.
In the mountains, the strong front is expected to bring moderate to heavy precipitation Friday. Snow levels will rise between 8,000 and 9,000 feet.
Snow levels are expected to fall to around 6,000 feet Saturday and Sunday, with the threat of accumulating snowfall above this level, according to the NWS.
Hikers and other people visiting the Cascades or Olympics should plan for cold temperatures, high elevation snow Saturday and Sunday, and breezy conditions all weekend.
Monday will see the return of the typical pleasant, fall weather with high temperatures in the mid-60s and partly sunny conditions.
