Travel Warning: Avalanche control along the North Cascades Highway

Lane changes and reduced speeds on SR 20 at Washington Pass beginning May 9

Information released, WSDOT file photo

Avalanche control and maintenance teams are monitoring conditions in Washington and Rainy passes. Beginning Thursday, May 9, travelers will encounter an eastbound lane closure near the summit of Washington Pass (milepost 162-162) to direct traffic away from the mountainside. Eastbound traffic will be shifted to the westbound fast lane. The eastbound lane closure and lane shift will be in effect until 12:00 p.m. Monday, May 13.

Warmer weather in the North Cascades means an increased risk of debris and snow slides in mountain passes this weekend. A speed advisory of 35 miles per hour is posted for the duration of the lane closure.

Crews will continue to monitor conditions throughout the weekend. Updates will be shared on the SR 20 North Cascades mountain pass page and the Real-time travel map.