7 Critical Updates For I-90 Washington Travelers: Snoqualmie Pass, Landslides, And WSDOT Closures

Planning a drive across Washington State's crucial Interstate 90 corridor on this Wednesday, December 17, 2025? Your travel plans require immediate attention, as conditions are volatile, transitioning rapidly from wet to hazardous winter travel, coupled with significant ongoing construction and unexpected closures. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is managing multiple complex issues, including a recurring landslide near North Bend and a heavy snow forecast that will dramatically impact the Snoqualmie Pass summit.

This comprehensive, up-to-the-minute guide provides the freshest data, focusing on the critical Snoqualmie Pass section, major construction zones, and essential safety requirements. While the pass itself was recently reported as "bare and wet," a major winter storm is imminent, and travelers must be prepared for mandatory chain requirements to be enforced at a moment's notice.

Snoqualmie Pass: The Volatile Winter Forecast and Current Status

The 3,022-foot Snoqualmie Pass (Milepost 52) is the most critical chokepoint on I-90, connecting the Puget Sound region with Eastern Washington. As of the latest WSDOT reports, the pass is currently listed with "Bare and wet" conditions, with light rain falling at the summit.

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However, this stability is short-lived. Weather forecasts for the surrounding Kittitas County and Chelan County areas indicate a severe shift, signaling the start of a major winter weather event. Heavy snow storms and snow showers are forecasted to dominate the area from Wednesday, December 17, through the upcoming weekend. Temperatures are expected to hover around the freezing mark, guaranteeing rapid snow accumulation and icy patches.

Travelers must anticipate an immediate implementation of mandatory chain requirements for all vehicles, including those with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or 4x4. The WSDOT strictly enforces these rules to prevent dangerous spin-outs and pass closures. Always carry traction tires and chains when crossing any mountain pass in Washington during the winter season.

Understanding Chain Requirements on I-90

WSDOT uses a tiered system for mountain pass restrictions, often posted at the North Bend and Easton checkpoints:

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• Level 1: Traction tires advised.
• Level 2: Traction tires or chains required.
• Level 3: Chains required on all vehicles over 10,000 lbs (excluding buses).
• Level 4 (Mandatory): Chains required on all vehicles (except AWD/4x4 with traction tires) and all vehicles over 10,000 lbs.
• Pass Closed: The final and most severe status, often due to high avalanche danger or unmanageable road conditions.

Do not rely solely on the forecast; conditions can change in minutes. Check the WSDOT Mountain Pass Report before you leave.

Major I-90 Closures, Landslides, and Construction Alerts

Beyond the weather, several non-weather related incidents and long-term projects are causing significant delays and closures along the I-90 corridor.

1. Recurring Landslide Near North Bend (Milepost 36)

A critical incident occurred recently, with a third debris slide in a week hitting I-90 eastbound just past North Bend at Milepost 36. This event, updated on December 15, 2025, resulted in the closure of the two right lanes of eastbound I-90. This area is prone to slides, especially following heavy rain, and the closures significantly affect traffic heading east toward the Snoqualmie Pass corridor.

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2. Erosion Mitigation and Lane Reductions

WSDOT has implemented a double-lane closure for erosion mitigation along a stretch of I-90 between Seattle and the Idaho State Line. Travelers should prepare for unexpected backups and delays, particularly during peak travel periods, as this work is essential for long-term road safety but impacts current flow.

3. The I-90 East Project (Hyak to Easton Expansion)

The long-term I-90 East Project continues, aiming to expand a 15-mile stretch of the freeway from Hyak to Easton. This massive undertaking is designed to meet both current and future transportation demands. While not a full closure, travelers should expect intermittent lane reductions and construction activity throughout this section.

4. SR 18 Interchange and Ramp Closures

Several localized ramp closures and improvements are active, primarily near the SR 18 Interchange. Updated in late 2025, projects include work on the I-90 Eastbound HOV on-ramp at 80th Ave SE near East Mercer Way and improvements around the Snoqualmie Parkway/SR 18 area. These improvements are vital for regional traffic flow but require drivers to check local WSDOT alerts for detours.

Essential WSDOT Resources and Proactive Travel Safety

Navigating I-90 in Washington, especially in winter, requires a proactive approach. The best tool for any traveler is the official WSDOT information network.

The WSDOT Traffic App and Alerts

The most reliable source for real-time conditions, including mountain pass reports, construction updates, and unexpected closures, is the WSDOT Traffic App. This application provides instant access to:

• Live traffic cameras (e.g., at Snoqualmie Summit, Easton, Hyak).
• Current weather conditions and forecasts for key I-90 locations.
• Immediate alerts on chain requirements.

Check Points and Alternative Routes

While I-90 is the main transcontinental route, Washington has other mountain passes that serve as potential—though often longer—alternatives when I-90 is closed or restricted. These include:

• White Pass (US 12): A southern alternative, but also subject to severe winter conditions.
• Stevens Pass (US 2): A northern route, often a viable option but with its own set of weather challenges.
• Manastash Pass (I-82): Primarily a regional route connecting to I-90.

Always check the status of these alternative routes before committing to a detour, as they may face similar weather-related closures.

Winter Travel Preparation Checklist

For any traveler crossing the Cascade Mountains during the winter months, proper preparation is non-negotiable:

1. Fuel Up: Ensure your gas tank is full before entering the mountain corridor.
2. Tire Check: Verify your tires have adequate tread depth. Traction tires are highly recommended.
3. Carry Chains: Even if restrictions are not posted, always carry chains and know how to install them.
4. Emergency Kit: Pack blankets, extra food, water, a flashlight, and battery boosters.
5. Clear Visibility: Ensure all windows, lights, and mirrors are completely clear of snow and ice.

The current I-90 conditions reflect a typical, dynamic winter in Washington State. With heavy snow and ice expected to descend upon Snoqualmie Pass starting today, December 17, 2025, and existing closures from the North Bend landslide and erosion mitigation projects, vigilance is paramount. Utilize the WSDOT resources, prepare your vehicle for severe weather, and prioritize safety above all else to ensure a smooth journey across the Cascades.