As of December 12, 2025, the NOAA weather Wenatchee forecast indicates that cold, calm, and foggy conditions continue to dominate central Washington. Residents in the Wenatchee Valley are waking up to temperatures in the mid-20s, dense fog in several neighborhoods, and traces of snow along the surrounding hills. The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Spokane has confirmed that below-normal temperatures and periods of freezing fog will persist through the weekend, making for a chilly but fairly stable pattern.
Current Conditions in Wenatchee
Friday morning’s readings show 27°F in downtown Wenatchee, with humidity near 93% and light winds from the northwest at about 4 mph. The air is cold and still, with patches of fog lingering in low-lying areas such as East Wenatchee and the Columbia River corridor.
Visibility early this morning dropped below one mile in multiple spots, including the Wenatchee-Pangborn Memorial Airport, where runway de-icing operations were underway before sunrise.
Despite the gray skies, the day’s conditions remain relatively calm, with the NWS predicting only light snow flurries in the late afternoon and a high temperature around 32°F. Overnight, lows will dip to about 24°F, with freezing fog once again forming overnight and into Saturday morning.
Short-Term Forecast (Friday through Sunday)
The next 72 hours will bring more of the same: cold mornings, cloudy afternoons, and the continued chance for light snow showers around Wenatchee and surrounding foothills.
Friday, December 12
- High: 32°F
- Low: 24°F
- Conditions: Cloudy skies with occasional flurries. Pockets of freezing fog, especially before noon.
- Winds: Northwest 5 mph.
- Travel impact: Slick roads possible early and late in the day.
Saturday, December 13
- High: 30°F
- Low: 22°F
- Conditions: Mostly cloudy. Scattered snow showers possible by midday.
- Expected accumulation: Up to 1 inch in valley areas; 2–3 inches possible above 2,500 feet.
- Visibility: Less than one mile in morning fog.
Sunday, December 14
- High: 34°F
- Low: 25°F
- Conditions: Partly sunny skies developing in the afternoon.
- Winds: Calm to light southerly.
- Visibility: Gradual improvement throughout the day.
The weekend forecast will favor outdoor activities during daylight hours on Sunday, once the fog and haze begin to clear.
Extended Forecast: Early Next Week Outlook
The NOAA weather Wenatchee forecast shows a gradual warming trend early next week as high pressure rebuilds across the Pacific Northwest. However, the change will be modest, with overnight lows still falling below freezing through midweek.
Monday, December 15
- Partly cloudy with highs near 37°F.
- Valley fog early, clearing to sunshine in the afternoon.
- No precipitation expected.
Tuesday, December 16
- Continued dry and calm.
- High near 38°F, low around 26°F.
- Some fog redevelopment late at night.
Wednesday, December 17
- Increasing clouds.
- A weak system may bring flurries or light snow showers to the area by evening.
- Temperatures steady in the mid-30s.
The NWS expects a more active weather pattern to return late next week as Pacific moisture begins moving back into Washington. For now, Wenatchee will experience a quiet stretch with seasonal cold and occasional fog.
Snowpack and River Update
Early winter conditions are helping to build a healthy snowpack in the Cascades, which directly affects the Wenatchee Valley’s water supply and recreation outlook.
As of Friday, the Stevens Pass snow depth has reached 28 inches, while Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort, located just 12 miles southwest of Wenatchee, reports a base depth of 23 inches. Skiing and snowboarding conditions are described as excellent, with recent snowfalls improving powder quality across the mountain.
For the Wenatchee River Basin, water levels are near normal, and no flooding issues have been reported. With colder temperatures and minimal precipitation, the river’s flow remains steady, supporting regional hydroelectric operations and maintaining clear water conditions.
Fog and Air Quality Conditions
One of the dominant weather features this week has been the persistent valley fog. With calm winds and temperature inversions setting up overnight, Wenatchee has seen dense fog formation during the early morning hours each day this week.
The National Weather Service warns that visibility could again drop below a quarter-mile at times through Sunday morning, especially in areas along the Columbia River and downtown Wenatchee.
The Washington Department of Ecology has reported moderate air quality levels across the Wenatchee Valley due to trapped fine particulates. Residents are encouraged to reduce wood stove use and limit prolonged outdoor activity during dense fog episodes.
By Sunday afternoon, as winds shift slightly to the southeast, fog coverage is expected to decrease, and visibility should improve for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Mountain Pass and Highway Travel Conditions
Travelers heading in or out of the Wenatchee Valley this weekend should prepare for winter driving conditions, especially across higher elevations.
Current Pass Conditions:
- Stevens Pass (U.S. 2): Compact snow and ice with temperatures in the mid-20s. Chains required for vehicles over 10,000 lbs.
- Blewett Pass (U.S. 97): Icy patches and light snow flurries. Drivers should carry chains and expect occasional slowdowns.
- Snoqualmie Pass (I-90): Moderate snowfall with traction tires advised. Temperatures around 28°F.
Local Travel Notes:
- In-town roads are generally clear, though shaded areas remain icy in the mornings.
- The Wenatchee bridge crossings can experience brief fog-related slowdowns, particularly during rush hours.
Drivers are reminded to carry emergency supplies, check tire pressure regularly, and maintain extra stopping distance in slick conditions.
Weekend Outdoor and Recreation Outlook
Despite cold mornings, outdoor conditions will improve slightly over the weekend. The Mission Ridge Ski Resort will remain open with all main lifts operating and visibility improving by Sunday.
- Base Temperature: 25°F
- Summit Temperature: 18°F
- Snow Depth: 23–28 inches
- Weather: Cloudy Saturday, partly sunny Sunday
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails at Squilchuck State Park and Leavenworth’s Icicle Creek are open, but visitors should expect icy surfaces early in the day. Those hiking Saddle Rock should use caution, as shaded slopes remain frozen throughout the morning hours.
Comparing Current Conditions to Historical Trends
December in Wenatchee is typically marked by cold, dry air and occasional snow showers. Historical averages from NOAA indicate:
- Average December High: 36°F
- Average December Low: 26°F
- Average Monthly Snowfall: 3.4 inches
This year’s conditions are running slightly colder than average, though precipitation totals remain close to normal. The current snow depth in nearby foothills—roughly 1–2 inches—is typical for mid-December.
Long-range outlooks suggest temperatures will remain below normal through the end of the month, keeping snow on the ground longer than in some previous years.
Potential Weather Changes Later Next Week
By Thursday or Friday of next week (December 18–19), forecasters expect a weak Pacific system to push moisture eastward into the Cascades. This may bring another round of light snow or mixed precipitation to the Wenatchee Valley.
At this point, accumulations appear minimal — likely less than an inch — but forecasters are monitoring the system closely. The arrival of Pacific moisture could also help break up persistent fog that has blanketed the region for much of the past week.
Residents should monitor local forecasts early next week for updates as models refine timing and snow potential.
Safety and Preparation Tips for the Weekend
Cold, calm weather may feel manageable, but safety should still be top of mind. The Wenatchee Fire Department and Chelan County Emergency Management have issued general winter safety reminders for residents this weekend:
- Prepare vehicles with emergency kits, blankets, water, and a flashlight.
- Avoid idling vehicles in enclosed garages due to carbon monoxide risks.
- Dress in layers and wear waterproof footwear when outdoors.
- Drive cautiously on icy roads and bridges.
- Keep pets indoors or provide warm shelter during overnight freezes.
Those planning trips into the Cascades should verify pass conditions on WSDOT’s real-time travel map before departure.
Community Impacts and Local Updates
The persistent cold has influenced several community routines this week. Garbage and recycling pickups in parts of East Wenatchee were delayed Friday morning due to frozen access routes, though city crews expect to complete all scheduled collections by afternoon.
The Wenatchee School District confirmed that all schools are operating on normal schedules despite the fog, though bus routes are being adjusted slightly for safety during the morning commute.
Retail and travel activity remains steady as residents prepare for the upcoming holidays, with Mission Ridge and Leavenworth both reporting a rise in weekend tourism thanks to the fresh snow and winter scenery.
Final Thoughts
The NOAA weather Wenatchee forecast for December 12, 2025, highlights calm but cold conditions across central Washington, with fog and light snow continuing into the weekend. While temperatures remain below freezing, the overall pattern is stable, allowing for safe travel and excellent mountain recreation.
Residents can expect brighter skies by Sunday and a slow warming trend early next week, followed by the potential return of snow later in the week.
What’s the weather like in your part of Wenatchee today? Share your experiences and photos in the comments below!