About Washington Weather

Current Washington Weather (Selected Cities)

What is weather in Washington like?

Washington State, located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, is known for its diverse landscapes and unique climate. From the lush rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the arid regions of Eastern Washington, understanding what the weather is like in Washington year-round can help you plan your visit or even consider moving to this beautiful state. In this blog post, we will explore the seasonal weather patterns across different regions of Washington State.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Washington State is a time of renewal and growth. As winter fades away, temperatures begin to rise, and flowers start to bloom.

Western Washington

In Western Washington, which includes cities like Seattle and Tacoma, spring typically brings mild temperatures ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 65°F (18°C). Rainfall is common during this season, especially in March and April. However, May often sees a decrease in precipitation and more sunny days.

Eastern Washington

In contrast, Eastern Washington experiences a more pronounced change during spring. Cities like Spokane see temperatures rise from around 40°F (4°C) in March to about 70°F (21°C) by May. The region receives less rainfall than its western counterpart, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is one of the most popular times to visit Washington State due to its warm weather and longer days.

Western Washington

During summer months, Western Washington enjoys pleasant temperatures averaging between 60°F (16°C) and 80°F (27°C). The coastal areas benefit from a marine influence that keeps temperatures moderate. Rainfall decreases significantly during this period, with July often being one of the driest months.

Eastern Washington

Eastern Washington heats up considerably more than the west side during summer. Cities like Yakima can experience temperatures soaring above 90°F (32°C), with some areas even reaching into the triple digits. This region also enjoys plenty of sunshine with minimal rainfall.

Fall (September to November)

Fall brings a stunning transformation across Washington State as leaves change color and temperatures begin to cool down.

Western Washington

In Western Washington, September often feels like an extension of summer with temperatures still hovering around 70°F (21°C). However, by October and November, daytime highs drop to between 50°F (10°C) and 60°F (16°C), accompanied by increased rainfall as winter approaches.

Eastern Washington

Eastern Washington experiences a quicker transition into fall. September can still be warm with highs around 75°F (24°C), but by October, temperatures drop significantly—often falling below freezing at night by November. Rainfall increases slightly but remains lower than in Western regions.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Washington State varies dramatically between its two regions.

Western Washington

Western Washington winters are characterized by mild temperatures ranging from 30°F (-1°C) at night to about 50°F (10°C) during the day. Rain is frequent; however, snowfall is relatively rare at lower elevations but can occur in higher altitudes such as the Cascade Mountains. Seattle often sees cloudy skies throughout winter months but also has occasional sunny days that break through.

Eastern Washington

Conversely, Eastern Washington experiences colder winters with average daytime highs around 30°F (-1°C) and nighttime lows frequently dropping below freezing. Snowfall can be significant here; cities like Spokane receive an average of over four feet of snow each winter season—perfect for those who enjoy winter sports!

Microclimates Across Regions

One fascinating aspect of what the weather is like in Washington year-round is its microclimates caused by geographical features such as mountains and bodies of water. For example:

• Olympic Peninsula: This area receives some of the highest rainfall amounts in North America due to orographic lift caused by mountains.
• Columbia Basin: Located eastward from the Cascades, this region has a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters.
• Understanding these microclimates can help you better prepare for your travels or daily life within different parts of the state.

Conclusion

In summary, what is the weather like in Washington year-round? It varies significantly depending on where you are within this diverse state:

• Spring: Mild temps with rain on both sides; warmer on East.
• Summer: Pleasantly warm on West; hot on East.
• Fall: Gradual cooling with vibrant foliage; quicker transition on East.
• Winter: Mild & rainy West; cold & snowy East.

Whether you're planning a trip or considering relocating here permanently, knowing how varied weather patterns are across seasons will enhance your experience living or visiting this remarkable state!