Winter Storm Warnings in Spokane, Washington
Spokane sits in the Inland Northwest at an elevation high enough to pull in cold Arctic air but low enough to collect substantial moisture from Pacific systems. Over the 13 winters analyzed from 2012 through 2024, the city averaged 32.9 inches (83.7 cm) of snowfall per year — a meaningful accumulation that shapes how residents and forecasters think about winter hazards. The heaviest snow typically falls during December, January, and February, when temperatures are most likely to stay below freezing long enough for significant accumulation to build up on roads and rooftops.
Average winter overnight lows hover around 24.1 °F (−4.4 °C), cold enough that snow sticks and compacts into ice rather than melting quickly. Despite the respectable seasonal totals, the data show that truly extreme single-day snow events — the kind that trigger official Winter Storm Warnings — are rare in Spokane's recent record.
A Winter Storm Warning from the National Weather Service means dangerous winter conditions are expected imminently or are already occurring. It is the highest-tier winter alert, and the precise snowfall or ice thresholds used to issue one differ from region to region. What qualifies as a warning-level event in a southern or coastal city may be a routine forecast in Spokane, so always rely on local NWS criteria when interpreting any alert issued for this area.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 32.9 in (83.7 cm) |
| Snowiest months | December, January, February |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 24.1°F (−4.4°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Spokane within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Spokane winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Spokane right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Spokane, Washington. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Spokane get winter storm warnings often?
Spokane sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Spokane?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Spokane?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Washington authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Coeur d'Alene, ID
- Winter storm warning in Yakima, WA
- Winter storm warning in Missoula, MT
- Winter storm warning in Boise, ID
- Winter storm warning in Seattle, WA
- Winter storm warning in Tacoma, WA
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.