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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
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Deep snow delays North Cascades Highway opening

Snow blower operator Duane Wolley, Carlton, Wash., cuts a 9-foot-wide by 6-foot-deep swath of snow from the center line of the North Cascades Highway on April 10, 2008, clearing the way for a possible opening of the mountain pass. On Saturday, March 25, 2017, the Washington State Department of Transportation said snow clearing on the highway, also known as State Route 20, has been delayed until April 10, due to avalanche danger. (DON SEABROOK / AP)
Associated Press

SEATTLE – Washington state officials say deep snow will delay the start of clearing the North Cascades Highway.

The Washington Department of Transportation tells KING-TV that removing snow from the road also known as State Route 20 will likely start on April 10 rather than mid-March.

The agency said potential avalanches and weather make it unsafe for workers to begin clearing the highway sooner.

Officials said workers found snow up to 25 feet deep and that avalanche chutes remain full.

Once plowing starts, it’s usually a four- to six-week job. But officials said it will take about eight weeks this year and might extend into June.