Seattle

Comprehensive Guide to Seattle’s Weather and Climate by Season

Seattle, located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, is known for its lush greenery, proximity to water and mountains, and, of course, its reputation for rain. However, the city’s weather is more nuanced than its rainy stereotype suggests. Below is a detailed guide to Seattle’s seasons, including practical advice on weather, attire, activities, costs, and considerations for visitors and new residents.

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1. Spring (March to May)

Weather and Climate

• Temperature: Ranges from 40°F to 65°F (4°C to 18°C).
• Rainfall: Moderate, with occasional sunny days. Rain is frequent but usually light and drizzly.
• Daylight: Days gradually get longer, with sunset moving from around 6:00 PM in March to 8:30 PM in May.

What to Wear

• Outerwear: A lightweight, waterproof jacket or raincoat is essential.
• Layers: Wear layers such as sweaters or long-sleeve shirts, as mornings and evenings can be chilly.
• Footwear: Waterproof shoes or boots are recommended for wet days.
• Accessories: An umbrella is optional (locals often prefer rain jackets), and a scarf can be useful for cooler days.

Activities to Consider

• Cherry Blossoms: Visit the University of Washington campus in late March or early April to see the iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom.
• Outdoor Exploration: Spring is a great time to explore local parks like Discovery Park or Green Lake, as the greenery begins to flourish.
• Farmers Markets: Seattle’s farmers markets, such as Pike Place Market and Ballard Farmers Market, are vibrant with fresh produce and flowers.
• Museums: On rainy days, explore indoor attractions like the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) or the Seattle Art Museum.

Costs

• Spring is shoulder season for tourism, so accommodation and airfare may be slightly cheaper than in summer. However, prices start to rise in May as summer approaches.

Considerations

• Rain Preparedness: Be ready for sudden rain showers, even on sunny days.
• Allergies: Pollen levels can be high during spring, so allergy sufferers should bring necessary medications.

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2. Summer (June to August)

Weather and Climate

• Temperature: Ranges from 55°F to 80°F (13°C to 27°C), with occasional heatwaves reaching the mid-90s°F (35°C).
• Rainfall: Minimal, with long stretches of dry, sunny weather.
• Daylight: Extremely long days, with sunset around 9:00 PM in June and July.

What to Wear

• Outerwear: A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
• Clothing: Comfortable summer attire like T-shirts, shorts, and dresses.
• Footwear: Sneakers or sandals for walking around the city.
• Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Activities to Consider

• Outdoor Adventures: Hike in nearby areas like Mount Rainier National Park or Snoqualmie Falls. Kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Union or Lake Washington are also popular.
• Festivals: Attend local events like the Seattle International Film Festival (June), Capitol Hill Block Party (July), or Seafair (July-August), which features hydroplane races and the Blue Angels air show.
• Parks and Beaches: Enjoy picnics or swimming at Alki Beach, Golden Gardens, or Green Lake.
• Day Trips: Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island or explore the San Juan Islands.

Costs

• Summer is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices for hotels, flights, and attractions. Book accommodations and activities well in advance.

Considerations

• Crowds: Popular attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle can be crowded. Visit early in the day to avoid long lines.
• Wildfire Smoke: Occasionally, smoke from wildfires in the region can affect air quality in late summer. Check air quality reports if you plan outdoor activities.

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3. Fall (September to November)

Weather and Climate

• Temperature: Ranges from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C).
• Rainfall: Rain returns gradually, with October and November being particularly wet.
• Daylight: Days shorten significantly, with sunset around 7:00 PM in September and 4:30 PM by late November.

What to Wear

• Outerwear: A medium-weight waterproof jacket or coat.
• Layers: Sweaters, flannels, and long-sleeve shirts are ideal for layering.
• Footwear: Waterproof boots or sturdy shoes for wet conditions.
• Accessories: A compact umbrella and a hat or scarf for added warmth.

Activities to Consider

• Fall Foliage: Enjoy the changing colors at Washington Park Arboretum or Kubota Garden.
• Coffee Culture: Cozy up in one of Seattle’s many coffee shops, such as the original Starbucks at Pike Place Market or local favorites like Tilikum Place Café.
• Cultural Events: Attend the Earshot Jazz Festival (October) or the Seattle International Comedy Competition (November).
• Indoor Attractions: Explore the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit or the Pacific Science Center.

Costs

• Fall is another shoulder season, so travel and accommodation costs may be lower than in summer. However, prices can spike during major events or holidays.

Considerations

• Rain Gear: Be prepared for consistent rain, especially in November.
• Shorter Days: Plan outdoor activities earlier in the day to make the most of limited daylight.

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4. Winter (December to February)

Weather and Climate

• Temperature: Ranges from 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C).
• Rainfall: Winter is the wettest season, with frequent rain and overcast skies.
• Snow: Snow is rare but possible, with occasional light snowfalls that can disrupt traffic due to the city’s hilly terrain.
• Daylight: Short days, with sunset around 4:20 PM in December.

What to Wear

• Outerwear: A warm, waterproof coat or parka.
• Layers: Thermal layers, sweaters, and long-sleeve shirts for warmth.
• Footwear: Waterproof boots with good traction for wet or icy conditions.
• Accessories: Gloves, a hat, and a scarf for added warmth.

Activities to Consider

• Holiday Events: Enjoy festive activities like the Christmas Ship Festival, Winterfest at Seattle Center, or the Pike Place Market holiday lights.
• Skiing and Snowboarding: Head to nearby ski resorts like Stevens Pass or Snoqualmie Pass for winter sports.
• Indoor Activities: Visit the Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Northwest Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” or the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI).
• Cozy Dining: Warm up with a bowl of clam chowder at Ivar’s or enjoy a hot drink at a local café.

Costs

• Winter is the off-season for tourism, so flights and accommodations are generally more affordable. However, holiday periods (Christmas and New Year’s) may see price increases.

Considerations

• Rain Preparedness: Expect consistent rain and overcast skies. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can affect some people due to the lack of sunlight; consider bringing a light therapy lamp if staying long-term.
• Snow Disruptions: Even light snow can cause significant disruptions to transportation, so plan accordingly.

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General Tips for Visitors and New Residents

1. Transportation: Seattle has an excellent public transit system, including buses, light rail, and ferries. Consider getting an ORCA card for easy access to all modes of transit.
2. Local Etiquette: Seattleites are known for being polite but reserved. Don’t be offended if people seem distant; it’s part of the “Seattle Freeze” stereotype.
3. Sustainability: Seattle is an eco-conscious city. Use reusable bags, recycle, and consider walking or biking when possible.
4. Weather Apps: Check weather apps frequently, as conditions can change quickly.

By understanding Seattle’s seasons and planning accordingly, you can make the most of your visit or transition to life in this vibrant, dynamic city!