Snow falling at Paine Field

Up to two inches of snow are still forecast to fall in the lowlands of Snohomish County by this evening, despite a later start than originally predicted.

Snow started falling at Paine Field around 8:38 a.m. today, as a mix of snow and rain moved into the area. The rain is turning to snow in other parts of the county.

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a snow advisory for the lowlands of Snohomish County, said Johnny Burg, a spokesman of the weather service.

Snow is expected to start turning back to rain after 6 p.m. as temperatures rise, Burg said.

“Most of it should be gone by tomorrow,” he said.

Roads in the county’s lowlands are wet, but traffic seems to be flowing smoothly, Burg said.

Meanwhile, much more snow is forecast to fall in the Cascade Mountains.

Drivers crossing passes such as Stevens Pass should have traction tires and carry tire chains, Burg said. The weather service has issues a warning for heavy snow in the mountains; the warning will continue through noon Friday, Burg said.

Snow may slow down traffic during commute hours this afternoon. People should give extra time to get to a place, Burg said.

“People just should be prepared,” he said.