EVERETT — Temperatures dropped in Snohomish County on Thursday evening as the region braced for a band of snow approaching from the south.

The worst-case scenario for the Friday morning commute could consist of up to three inches in the lowlands, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle. However, the Thursday evening forecasts were less wintry than earlier predictions: Everett and areas south may only see a trace of rain/snow mix. Communities north and east of Everett still could receive a couple of inches and mountain passes likely will experience heavy accumulation.

Any snow near sea level is expected to turn back to rain around daybreak Friday. However it breaks down, the morning commute could still be tricky, and drivers should plan for extra travel time. Bridges and hills may be slicker than usual. Some area schools and preschools already have canceled morning and evening activities.

People in Lewis and Thurston counties were reporting up to four inches as of press time Thursday. Meanwhile, in parts of Eastern Washington, there was enough for skinny snowmen.

Here the rain is likely to continue from Friday through the weekend and possibly into Monday and Tuesday. Snow showers are possible Sunday night and Monday, but that snow isn’t expected to stick.

Daytime temperatures next week are likely to hover around 35. Slick and icy roads will remain a concern, especially at night.