Snow causes crashes in eastern Wash., north Idaho

SEATTLE (AP) — A winter storm has dropped 3 to 8 inches of snow in eastern Washington and northern Idaho, closing some highways and causing numerous traffic accidents.

The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office says 125 collisions were reported in the county between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday. However, none of the wrecks involved serious injuries.

The Spokesman-Review reports (http://bit.ly/zdqAph ) drivers who weren’t involved in crashes were nonetheless delayed on many roads, including the state highway to Mt. Spokane State Park.

Both lanes of that road were temporarily closed because of downed trees. Fourth of July Pass on Interstate 90 also was closed at one point because of accidents.

In Spokane, Mayor David Condon declared a “stage 1” snow condition, meaning crews would work around the clock to plow certain streets and bus routes.

The Idaho State Police also reported a high volume of crashes and slide-offs in north Idaho due to “treacherous winter road conditions.”