Weather forecasters with the NOAA/National Weather Service (NWS) are predicting a mix of rain and snow, freezing temperatures and icy roads this weekend.

According to forecasts, a major change in weather patterns is expected to occur on Friday as a strong surface low pressure system moves accross Western Washington. The weather front will begin as a cold rain, possibly changing to snow Friday evening in elevations above 100 feet. Strong winds are also expected during the afternoon and evening hours, though forecasts predict the Washington coast will be most affected. NWS advises the combination of high winds and precipitation will likely cause travel delays during the evening rush-hour.

Low temperatures are expected to fall below freezing Friday night and could persist throughout the weekend and into next week. Scattered snow showers and snowfall accumulations are still uncertain, but a winter storm watch could be issued later this week. Residents are advised to prepare for winter weather conditions, which could create hazardous icy road conditions, burst plumbing pipes and endanger the safety of outdoor pets.

The arrival of the season's first snows have some hoping locally for another "White Christmas" after last year's late December snow. KOMO 4 News Meteorologist Scott Sistek reports the cold snap could last longer than a week, allowing for the possibility of snow for the Christmas holiday -- but he declined to guarantee the the snow would fall in time for Santa's sleigh.

For more information, visit www.weather.gov/seattle.