The NOAA forecast for Mount Rainier predicts varying weather conditions over the next few days. Expect rain and snow with temperatures ranging from below freezing at higher elevations to the mid-40s at lower elevations. Snow levels will fluctuate between 3500 and 9500 feet, with heavy snowfall expected over the weekend. An atmospheric river is forecasted to bring moderate to heavy rain, impacting hiking trails and road accessibility.
What Are the Current Temperature Ranges and Precipitation Forecasts?
The NOAA forecast for Mount Rainier provides detailed information on temperature ranges and precipitation:
- Wednesday Night: Rain, snow, and a slight chance of thunderstorms. Snow accumulation near Paradise: 1 to 4 inches. Snow level: 4000 feet.
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain and snow. Snow level: 4000 feet.
- Thursday Night: Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of rain and snow. Snow level: 3500 feet.
- Friday: Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain and snow in the afternoon. Snow level: 4500 feet.
- Friday Night to Sunday: Rain and snow likely, with snow levels varying between 7000 to 9500 feet.
An atmospheric river is expected to bring moderate to heavy rain over the weekend, significantly impacting weather conditions on Mount Rainier.
What Are the Specific Temperature Outlooks for Different Locations?
The NOAA forecast provides temperature outlooks for various locations on Mount Rainier:
Summit (14411 FT)
- Wednesday: -6°F
- Thursday: -5°F
- Thursday Night: 4°F
- Friday: 15°F
- Winds: NW 35-45 mph
Camp Muir (10188 FT)
- Wednesday: 12°F
- Thursday: 13°F
- Thursday Night: 21°F
- Friday: 26°F
- Winds: W 20-30 mph
Paradise (5420 FT)
- Wednesday: High 28°F, Low 32°F
- Thursday: High 32°F, Low 38°F
- Thursday Night: Low 26°F
- Friday: High 38°F
- Winds: W 5-10 mph
Longmire (2760 FT)
- Wednesday: High 36°F, Low 41°F
- Thursday: High 41°F, Low 34°F
- Thursday Night: Low 45°F
- Friday: High 45°F
- Winds: SW 5 mph
How Much Precipitation and Snow Accumulation Is Expected?
The NOAA forecast for Mount Rainier predicts:
- Snow Accumulation: 1 to 4 inches near Paradise on Wednesday night.
- Heavy snowfall over the weekend with snow levels increasing to 9500 feet by Saturday.
- Moderate to heavy rain due to an atmospheric river arriving this weekend.
- Rain and snow likely throughout the weekend and into the next week.
What Are the Detailed Hourly Temperature Outlooks and Precipitation Forecasts?
The NOAA provides the following general outlook for Mount Rainier:
- Tonight to Thursday: Rain and snow with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s at Paradise and lower elevations. Higher elevations will be much colder.
- Friday to Sunday: Rain and snow likely with increasing snow levels. Temperatures will remain cool, with highs in the 30s and 40s at lower elevations.
How Will Snow Levels Change Over the Forecast Period?
The NOAA forecast for Mount Rainier indicates significant changes in snow levels:
- Current Snow Depth: Not specified in the current forecast.
- Expected Changes: Snow levels will increase to 9500 feet by Saturday and then decrease to around 4500 feet by Monday.
- Impact: These fluctuations will significantly affect hiking trails and road access.
What Are the Minimum and Maximum Temperatures Expected?
The NOAA forecast predicts a wide range of temperatures for Mount Rainier:
- Higher Elevations: Below freezing temperatures with strong winds, creating hazardous conditions near the summit.
- Lower Elevations: Temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to 40s.
| Elevation | Temperature Range | Wind Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Summit | -6°F to 15°F | NW 35-45 mph |
| Camp Muir | 12°F to 26°F | W 20-30 mph |
| Paradise | 26°F to 38°F | W 5-10 mph |
| Longmire | 34°F to 45°F | SW 5 mph |
How Will the Weather Impact Activities and Visitor Safety?
The NOAA forecast for Mount Rainier suggests significant impacts on activities and visitor safety:
- Hiking Trails:
- Snow accumulation and changing snow levels will affect trail conditions.
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Higher elevations will be particularly hazardous due to strong winds and potential whiteout conditions.
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Road Access:
- Road conditions may be affected by snow and rain, especially at higher elevations.
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Visitors should check road conditions before traveling.
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Camping and Outdoor Activities:
- Lower elevations will experience cooler temperatures and precipitation, impacting outdoor activities.
- Higher elevations will require high skill levels and appropriate gear for navigation and camping.
What Precautions Should Visitors Take Based on the NOAA Forecast?
Given the NOAA forecast for Mount Rainier, visitors should:
- Check the latest weather updates before planning any activities.
- Prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.
- Bring appropriate gear for cold, wet conditions, including waterproof clothing and warm layers.
- Be aware of potential avalanche risks due to changing snow levels.
- Consider postponing high-elevation activities during periods of heavy snowfall or strong winds.
- Stay informed about road closures and trail conditions.
- Carry emergency supplies, including extra food, water, and communication devices.
By following these precautions and staying informed about the NOAA forecast for Mount Rainier, visitors can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience in the park.