Up to 30 inches of snow may fall on passes by Saturday night

SNOQUALMIE PASS -- Forecasters expect 18 to 30 inches of snow to fall on the Cascades passes by Saturday night -- great for skiers and boarders but a problem for highway drivers.

"We're expecting some challenges on the pass," Washington State Patrol Sgt. Peter Cozzitorto said Friday.

He says drivers need to be patient and be prepared -- check tires, lights and practice putting your chains on ahead of time.

"Make sure you understand how they work and how to get them off because once snow is on the ground it tends to be more challenging," he said.

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"The biggest driving tip is slow down," he added. "Please, please slow down, make sure you are prepared for the delays."

A major dumping of snow, however, is a delight for skiers, boarders -- and the resorts.

"Hopefully, that's (snow storm) the game changer we need," said Guy Lawrence of The Summit at Snoqualmie. "Really, really optimistic for Sunday that we can open up some terrain and get people out here."