Nearly_Pointless

Nearly_Pointless t1_j1nadpy wrote

The weather and conditions are dynamic. Often the reason for closure is drivers attempting to cross with poor tires. There are too many variables to answer your question with any certainty.

Get the WA DOT app and keep an eye on current conditions.

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Nearly_Pointless t1_ixseub3 wrote

It’s not typically the snow itself that closes the pass but rather people who aren’t prepared for winter driving attempting to cross and spinning out. Once there are a few dozen spin outs, they have to close the pass so tow trucks can get up there and clear them out.

In other words, it’s almost inevitable that it will get closed so if you’re really needing to get across, get across before too much snow falls.

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Nearly_Pointless t1_iwg19br wrote

Definitely not the Tesla unless someone changed the tires to a winter rated all season. EV tires are typically built for high fuel mileage, not cold weather traction. Wenatchee will be cold enough to make those tires hard rubber skis which won’t grip anything.

Of the group, I’d find the tire brands and models, compare them on Tirerack.com and choose the car with the best rated cold weather tires.

That and never follow closely, always assume you’ll need to stop at every intersection even if uncontrolled, drop speed a bit a bit for icy or snow covered roads and just relax. You’ll get there when you get there, don’t get pressured into having to be someplace.

That and remember that AWD doesn’t mean anything without decent tires. It’s only advantage is that in deeper snow or slick conditions with excellent tires, you’ll be an,e to keep moving. It doesn’t mean you can stop or turn better once you break traction. It makes it slightly better, not fool proof.

Every year in Spokane at every snowfall, all of the cars off the road are AWD or 4WD because they got fooled into thinking they can defy the laws of physics. They cannot, either can you.

Source, long time winter drive and a dad...listen to the old man here.

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