Snowstorm disrupts Medical Lake travel
Nearly five inches of snow leave roads icy and crews racing to clear routes
Medical Lake, Washington, remained under winter conditions after a powerful storm dumped nearly 5 inches of snow, leaving streets, highways and parking lots coated in snow and ice and prompting extended cleanup and travel disruptions. City crews prioritized plowing and sanding main roads, emergency routes and access to schools and medical facilities before moving into residential neighborhoods; many side streets stayed slick, leaving residents to report difficulty driving on untreated roads. Authorities urged motorists to use winter tires when possible and to avoid steep or shaded streets where ice persisted.
Some schools adjusted schedules or delayed openings and several businesses reported reduced foot traffic as residents stayed home. Power outages were limited, though utility crews remained on alert as heavy snow weighed down tree limbs and power lines in surrounding areas. Emergency officials warned of refreezing and black ice with overnight lows forecast well below freezing, and reminded residents to clear snow safely, avoid overexertion while shoveling and check on vulnerable neighbors. They also cautioned that additional light snow could fall, potentially complicating recovery efforts.
Meteorologists attributed the storm to a broader cold-weather system affecting eastern Washington, bringing below-average temperatures that could keep snow from melting quickly. The event formed part of a larger pattern of Arctic air and moisture-rich systems producing snow, ice and bitter cold across much of the country, where agencies have reported travel disruptions, flight delays and localized near-blizzard conditions in the northern Plains and Upper Midwest. Freezing rain and mixed precipitation affected Great Lakes and Northeast regions, increasing the risk of fallen trees and power outages, while unusually cold air pushed into some southern states, prompting openings of warming centers.
Transportation and weather agencies urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare emergency kits and expect ongoing delays as crews clear roads, runways and rail lines. Local officials in Medical Lake said recovery would continue as the storm system moved east and stressed patience and caution as winter hazards — particularly refreezing and black ice — remain a concern for the coming days.
