VALLEY RAIN - HEAVY MOUNTAIN SNOW

It looks like we are beginning our transition out of the blocking ridge of high pressure to a more active weather pattern. A train of storm systems will bring increased chances for precipitation over most locations. The exception will be over the deep Columbia Basin where a large precipitation shadow will limit totals. The mountains will be the big winners as far as snowfall totals are concerned. Several inches of snow are likely over the Cascades and the Idaho panhandle mountains beginning midweek and continuing into the early weekend. Some light snow accumulations are even possible over the valleys (especially northern valleys), although a transition to a rain/snow mix or just plain rain may occur south of I-90.

MORNING SNOW

LEWISTON/ CLARKSTON-A batch of light showers is spreading into the Inland NorthWest. In Lewiston & Clarkston, temperatures are now near 30 degrees. Showers may begin as snow, then mix with and change to all rain about 10am as temperatures rise above freezing.

MOSCOW/PULLMAN- Any showers arriving before 10am may begin as snow today before mixing with and changing to all rain.  Tonight snow is likely with little or no accumulation. 
CHECK THE RADAR: http://radar.weather.gov/radar.phprid=OTX&product=NCR&overlay=11101111&loop=yes

SNOW TODAY & TONIGHT

Light snow is entering the region Tuesday into Tuesday Night. This will be the first system of the week and will be followed by a couple more throughout the week. Mainly snow will be associated with this system, then we will transition to a valley rain mountain snow scenario later in the week. Snow amounts will remain light around the region. A slight chance of freezing rain will be possible in the Columbia Basin on Tuesday. Even light amounts of snow can lead to slick travel conditions, so use caution on snow covered roadways. http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/FXC/wxstory.php?wfo=otx