Seattle, often referred to as the Emerald City, is renowned for its lush greenery, vibrant coffee culture, and an abundance of outdoor activities. However, it's also known for its unpredictable weather. If you're planning a trip to Seattle or considering moving there, it's essential to understand the city's monthly weather patterns to pack accordingly and make informed decisions about outdoor activities.
Seattle experiences a temperate oceanic climate, which is characterized by mild, rainy winters and cool, dry summers. The city's proximity to the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains significantly influences the weather. Throughout the year, Seattle receives a moderate amount of precipitation, with the rainiest months being November through March.
Let's dive deeper into each month's weather in Seattle, highlighting key trends and providing average temperature ranges. This information will help you better understand Seattle's climate and prepare for your visit or relocation.
seattle weather monthly
Seattle's climate is mild, rainy winters, cool, dry summers.
- Mild winters
- Cool summers
- Rainy season: Nov-Mar
- Avg. annual rainfall: 38 inches
- Avg. annual snowfall: 6 inches
- Avg. summer high: 75°F
- Avg. winter low: 38°F
- Oceanic climate
Seattle's weather is influenced by Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains.
Mild winters
Seattle's winters are known for being mild and relatively temperate compared to many other cities in the United States. This is largely due to the city's location on the Puget Sound and the influence of the Pacific Ocean.
- Average temperatures:
During the winter months (December through February), average high temperatures typically range from 45°F to 48°F, while average low temperatures generally fall between 35°F and 38°F. These mild temperatures make it comfortable to explore the city and its surroundings without experiencing extreme cold.
- Rare snowfall:
Seattle receives an average of just 6 inches of snowfall annually. Snowfall is generally light and infrequent, and it rarely accumulates to significant levels. This means that you're unlikely to encounter major disruptions to daily life due to snowstorms or icy conditions.
- Rainy season:
The winter months in Seattle are also the city's rainy season. On average, Seattle receives around 5 inches of rain per month from November through March. While the rain can be persistent, it's usually not heavy, and it often comes and goes throughout the day.
- Outdoor activities:
Despite the rain, Seattleites embrace the outdoors year-round. Many parks and attractions remain open during the winter months, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and other activities. With proper clothing and a positive attitude, you can enjoy Seattle's natural beauty even in the rain.
Overall, Seattle's mild winters make it a great time to visit or live in the city. You can experience the city's vibrant culture, explore its natural surroundings, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities without having to endure harsh winter conditions.
Cool summers
Seattle's summers are known for being cool and refreshing, with moderate temperatures and low humidity. This makes it a welcome respite from the hot and humid summers experienced in many other parts of the country.
Average temperatures: During the summer months (June through August), average high temperatures typically range from 70°F to 75°F, while average low temperatures generally fall between 55°F and 60°F. These comfortable temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city without feeling overheated or uncomfortable.
Low humidity: Seattle's summers are also characterized by low humidity, which means the air feels drier and more comfortable. This is in contrast to many other cities, where high humidity can make even moderate temperatures feel oppressive.
Marine influence: The cool summers in Seattle are largely due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound. These bodies of water help to moderate the city's temperature, preventing it from getting too hot during the summer months.
Outdoor activities: Seattle's cool summers provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the city's many outdoor activities. Whether you're hiking in the mountains, kayaking on the Puget Sound, or simply relaxing in one of the city's many parks, you'll find that the weather is ideal for spending time outdoors.
Overall, Seattle's cool summers make it a great time to visit or live in the city. You can experience all that Seattle has to offer without having to endure hot and humid weather.
Rainy season: Nov-Mar
Seattle's rainy season typically lasts from November through March, with December and January being the wettest months. During this time, the city receives an average of 5 inches of rain per month. While the rain can be persistent, it's usually not heavy, and it often comes and goes throughout the day.
Average rainfall: Seattle receives an average of 38 inches of rain per year, which is significantly more than the national average of 38 inches. However, it's important to note that the rain is spread out over the course of the year, and it's not uncommon to experience several days or even weeks without rain, even during the rainy season.
Cloudy skies: The rainy season also brings with it an increase in cloud cover. On average, Seattle receives only 3 hours of sunshine per day during the winter months. This can make the days feel shorter and darker, but it also creates a unique and atmospheric ambiance.
Things to do: Even though it rains a lot during the rainy season, there are still plenty of things to do in Seattle. Many museums, theaters, and other attractions remain open, and there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as visiting the Space Needle, exploring the Pike Place Market, or taking a ferry ride across Puget Sound.
Seattleites embrace the rainy season as a part of the city's identity. They know that the rain helps to keep the city green and lush, and they make the most of the rainy days by bundling up and enjoying the outdoors.
Avg. annual rainfall: 38 inches
Seattle's average annual rainfall is 38 inches, which is significantly higher than the national average of 38 inches. This means that Seattle is a relatively rainy city, but it's important to note that the rain is spread out over the course of the year, and it's not uncommon to experience several days or even weeks without rain, even during the rainy season.
- Rainy season: The majority of Seattle's rain falls during the rainy season, which typically lasts from November through March. During this time, the city receives an average of 5 inches of rain per month.
- Rain showers: Seattle's rain often comes in the form of light to moderate rain showers. These showers can be frequent, but they usually don't last long.
- Drizzle: Seattle also experiences a lot of drizzle, which is a light, misty rain. Drizzle can be annoying, but it's not usually heavy enough to cause significant problems.
- Snowfall: Seattle receives an average of just 6 inches of snowfall per year. Snowfall is generally light and infrequent, and it rarely accumulates to significant levels.
Overall, Seattle's rainfall is something that visitors and residents need to be prepared for. However, the rain is rarely heavy enough to disrupt outdoor activities, and there are plenty of things to do in Seattle even on rainy days.
Avg. annual snowfall: 6 inches
Seattle receives an average of just 6 inches of snowfall per year, which is significantly less than many other cities in the United States. This is due to the city's proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the Puget Sound, which help to moderate the city's temperature and prevent it from getting too cold during the winter months.
- Rare snowfall: Snowfall in Seattle is generally light and infrequent. It's not uncommon to go an entire winter without seeing any snow at all.
- Snow accumulation: When snow does fall in Seattle, it rarely accumulates to significant levels. The city's mild temperatures and frequent rain showers help to melt the snow quickly.
- Snow activities: Despite the limited snowfall, there are still some opportunities to enjoy snow activities in Seattle. The nearby Cascade Mountains offer opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Additionally, the city's parks and green spaces are often covered in a light dusting of snow, which can make for a beautiful and festive atmosphere.
- Winter preparedness: While snowfall in Seattle is rare, it's still a good idea to be prepared for the possibility of snow and ice. Make sure to have a snow shovel and ice melt on hand, and be prepared to adjust your driving and walking habits if necessary.
Overall, Seattle's mild winters and limited snowfall make it a great place to live for people who don't enjoy cold and snowy weather. However, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of snow and ice, especially if you're planning on visiting or moving to the city during the winter months.
Avg. summer high: 75°F
Seattle's summers are known for being cool and refreshing, with average high temperatures in July and August reaching around 75°F. This makes Seattle's summers ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city without feeling overheated or uncomfortable.
Moderate temperatures: The moderate summer temperatures in Seattle are a welcome respite from the hot and humid summers experienced in many other parts of the country. This makes it a great place to escape the heat and enjoy the outdoors.
Low humidity: Seattle's summers are also characterized by low humidity, which means the air feels drier and more comfortable. This is in contrast to many other cities, where high humidity can make even moderate temperatures feel oppressive.
Marine influence: The cool summers in Seattle are largely due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound. These bodies of water help to moderate the city's temperature, preventing it from getting too hot during the summer months.
Outdoor activities: Seattle's cool summers provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the city's many outdoor activities. Whether you're hiking in the mountains, kayaking on the Puget Sound, or simply relaxing in one of the city's many parks, you'll find that the weather is ideal for spending time outdoors.
Overall, Seattle's cool summers make it a great place to visit or live if you prefer mild weather. You can experience all that Seattle has to offer without having to endure hot and humid weather.
Avg. winter low: 38°F
Seattle's winters are known for being mild and relatively temperate compared to many other cities in the United States. This is largely due to the city's location on the Puget Sound and the influence of the Pacific Ocean.
Moderate temperatures: During the winter months (December through February), average low temperatures typically range from 35°F to 38°F. These moderate temperatures make it comfortable to explore the city and its surroundings without experiencing extreme cold.
Rare snowfall: Seattle receives an average of just 6 inches of snowfall annually. Snowfall is generally light and infrequent, and it rarely accumulates to significant levels. This means that you're unlikely to encounter major disruptions to daily life due to snowstorms or icy conditions.
Rainy season: The winter months in Seattle are also the city's rainy season. On average, Seattle receives around 5 inches of rain per month from November through March. While the rain can be persistent, it's usually not heavy, and it often comes and goes throughout the day.
Outdoor activities: Despite the rain, Seattleites embrace the outdoors year-round. Many parks and attractions remain open during the winter months, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and other activities. With proper clothing and a positive attitude, you can enjoy Seattle's natural beauty even in the rain.
Overall, Seattle's mild winters make it a great time to visit or live in the city. You can experience the city's vibrant culture, explore its natural surroundings, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities without having to endure harsh winter conditions.
Oceanic climate
Seattle's climate is classified as oceanic, which is characterized by mild, rainy winters and cool, dry summers. This climate is influenced by the city's location on the Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean.
Mild winters: The Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound help to moderate Seattle's winter temperatures. This results in mild winters with average temperatures in the mid-40s (°F). Snowfall is rare and generally light, with the city receiving an average of just 6 inches of snow per year.
Cool summers: The Pacific Ocean also helps to keep Seattle's summers cool and refreshing. Average summer temperatures are in the mid-70s (°F), with low humidity. This makes Seattle's summers ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city without feeling overheated or uncomfortable.
Rainy season: Seattle's rainy season typically lasts from November through March, with December and January being the wettest months. During this time, the city receives an average of 5 inches of rain per month. While the rain can be persistent, it's usually not heavy, and it often comes and goes throughout the day.
Year-round outdoor activities: Seattle's oceanic climate allows for year-round outdoor activities. Even during the rainy season, many parks and attractions remain open, and there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. With proper clothing and a positive attitude, you can enjoy Seattle's natural beauty and vibrant culture regardless of the weather.
Overall, Seattle's oceanic climate is a major part of the city's identity and charm. It makes Seattle a great place to live and visit, offering a variety of outdoor activities and attractions throughout the year.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Seattle's weather, organized by month:
Question 1: What is the weather like in Seattle in January?
Answer: January is typically the coldest month in Seattle, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F to 45°F. Snowfall is rare, but it can occur. Be prepared for rain, as January is one of the wettest months of the year.
Question 2: What is the weather like in Seattle in April?
Answer: April marks the start of spring in Seattle, and the weather begins to warm up. Average temperatures range from 45°F to 55°F. Rain is still common, but there are also periods of sunshine. This is a great time to visit Seattle to see the cherry blossoms in bloom.
Question 3: What is the weather like in Seattle in July?
Answer: July is the warmest month in Seattle, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. The weather is typically dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. This is a popular time for tourists to visit Seattle.
Question 4: What is the weather like in Seattle in October?
Answer: October is a transitional month in Seattle, as the weather begins to cool down. Average temperatures range from 50°F to 60°F. Rain is common, but there are also periods of sunshine. This is a great time to visit Seattle to see the fall foliage.
Question 5: What is the weather like in Seattle in December?
Answer: December is a festive time in Seattle, with the city decorated for the holidays. The weather is typically cold and rainy, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F to 45°F. Snowfall is possible, but it is usually light. Be prepared for shorter days and limited daylight.
Question 6: What is the best time to visit Seattle?
Answer: The best time to visit Seattle depends on your preferences. If you prefer warm and sunny weather, the summer months (June through August) are ideal. If you don't mind rain and want to avoid the crowds, the shoulder months (April-May and September-October) are a good choice. Winter (November through March) is a great time to visit Seattle for a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Question 7: How do I prepare for Seattle's weather?
Answer: Be prepared for rain year-round in Seattle. Bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella, and dress in layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures. It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go out, as the weather can change quickly.
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These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about Seattle's weather. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask a local or check the National Weather Service website for more information.
Now that you know more about Seattle's weather, you can plan your visit or move to the city with confidence. Just remember to pack your umbrella and dress in layers!
Tips
Here are some practical tips for dealing with Seattle's weather, month by month:
Tip 1: Dress in layers: This is the key to staying comfortable in Seattle's unpredictable weather. Start with a base layer of breathable fabric, then add or remove layers as needed throughout the day.
Tip 2: Carry a waterproof jacket or umbrella: Rain is a common occurrence in Seattle, so it's always a good idea to be prepared. Keep a waterproof jacket or umbrella handy, especially during the rainy season (November through March).
Tip 3: Check the weather forecast: Seattle's weather can change quickly, so it's a good idea to check the forecast before you head out for the day. This will help you dress appropriately and plan your activities accordingly.
Tip 4: Embrace the rain: Seattleites don't let a little rain get them down. In fact, many people enjoy the city's rainy atmosphere. There are plenty of things to do in Seattle on a rainy day, such as visiting museums, exploring indoor attractions, or simply cozying up in a coffee shop with a good book.
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By following these tips, you can make the most of Seattle's weather, no matter what time of year you visit or live in the city.
Seattle's weather may be unpredictable, but it's also part of what makes the city so unique and charming. With a little preparation and a positive attitude, you can enjoy all that Seattle has to offer, rain or shine.
Conclusion
Seattle's weather is a defining characteristic of the city, shaping its culture, lifestyle, and natural beauty. From the mild winters and cool summers to the rainy season and year-round outdoor activities, Seattle's weather offers something for everyone.
If you're planning a visit to Seattle, be sure to pack your umbrella and dress in layers. No matter what time of year you visit, you're sure to experience a variety of weather conditions. But don't let that deter you—Seattle's weather is part of its charm and adds to the city's unique atmosphere.
Whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, there's something to love about Seattle's weather. Embrace the rain, enjoy the sunshine, and make the most of all that this vibrant city has to offer.
So, what are you waiting for? Come experience Seattle's weather for yourself and see why so many people fall in love with this city, rain or shine.