WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Snowflakes may be showing their face in the lowlands this week.

The National Weather Service in Seattle predicts a mix of rain and snow throughout western Washington on March 9 & 10.

A cold front blowing south into coastal Whatcom County will keep temps lower than normal for this time compared to previous years. Winds are also expected to blow through our region, picking up speed throughout Wednesday, March 11.

Though heavy precipitation is expected in other parts of the state, our region’s rivers are expected to remain below flood stage levels.

As for the Cascades, a winter storm warning is in effect through 5 a.m. on Tuesday.

Forecasters are warning of increased avalanche danger particularly later this week.