About 1 to 3 inches of snow is expected in the greater Vancouver area on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service in Portland, with higher elevations getting more.
Snow amounts will depend on how early snow starts sticking Saturday and when it stops falling early Sunday morning, according to the agency. Near-blizzard conditions are possible near the mouth of the Columbia River Gorge.
“Travel could be very difficult. Patchy blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches and cause local power outages,” NWS said. Drivers are cautioned to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles and those staying home are advised to bring pets inside and check on friends and family.
The frigid temperatures and wind will continue into Saturday with highs of around 20 and lows of around 13 in the forecast.
Temperatures will remain below freezing into next week, as late as Wednesday.
Warming shelters
Weather conditions are especially dangerous for people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. For a complete list of shelters, visit Clark Regional Emergency Services’ list of shelters and services.
Council for the Homeless issued a severe weather alert for Friday through Tuesday night. The alert activates the emergency shelter system in Clark County, opening up additional beds.
Living Hope Church will be open from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Friday through Sunday nights at 2711 N.E. Andresen Road in Vancouver. No referral is needed.
Refuel Washougal will be open 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. Friday night through Saturday night at 1681 C St., in Washougal. No referral is needed.
People who need shelter and housing assistance should call the Council for the Homeless Housing Hotline at 360-695-9677. The hotline is staffed 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends and holidays.
Community members can help by donating winter supplies to Council for the Homeless. Most needed items are on the agency’s Amazon Wish List.
To donate funds, visit councilforthehomeless-bloom.kindful.com.
Community members are also invited to volunteer and/or provide food for community-based shelters. Visit www.councilforthehomeless.org for information.
