As Seattle enters spring, it's proving to be a familiar tale of wet and windy weather that locals know all too well. Currently, a convergence of weather systems is drenching the region with rain and intermittent snow in the mountains as Seattle experiences scattered showers and gusty winds, with reports indicating wind speeds reaching up to 30 mph.
The Seattle Times noted that these conditions are expected to persist well into the weekend, creating both travel challenges and beneficial moisture for local ecosystems. Residents woke up to temperatures hovering around 43°F and are bracing for a high of 50°F today, with Saturday possibly offering a slight break in the relentless rain. However, by Sunday, both rain and mountain snow are anticipated to return, potentially bringing about river flooding as snow levels rise above 7,000 feet.
A winter storm warning is currently in effect for Stevens Pass and other parts of the Cascades through Saturday evening, a reminder of the fierce weather patterns that characterize this transitional season. Washington's recent La Niña winter did not bring the heavy snowfall that typically disrupts the lowlands; rather, it underperformed in both lowland snow accumulation and mountain snowpack—parameters significant for the region's water supply.
Historically, the months of March through May are when skies begin to clear, yet data shows that previous La Niña winters have often led to continued chilly and wet conditions. Notable years such as 2011, 2012, and 2022 saw precipitation levels soar above the average of 9.23 inches within the March to May timeframe. For instance, in 2011, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport recorded a staggering 13.96 inches of rain.
Interestingly, the Climate Prediction Center (CPC) has forecasted a cooler-than-average Meteorological Spring for 2025, encompassing the months of March, April, and May, accompanied by wetter-than-normal conditions. This could result in more filling of snowpacks before summer, providing skiers and mountain enthusiasts opportunities to hit the slopes even as the season warms.
Throughout the week, residents can expect a fluctuating forecast with moments of respite. The upcoming shift in weather appears to offer temperatures reaching the mid-60s by early next week, heralding a promising hint of sunshine and warmth.
For individuals planning to travel across the Cascade Mountains, especially those considering Sunday travel, remaining informed via weather updates is wise as conditions can evolve quickly, prompting advisories for both winter travel hazards and flooding risks in lower areas.
This unrelenting rain and the accompanying cool weather serve as a reminder of how La Niña influences Northwest weather patterns, potentially extending the winter feel even as the calendar suggests the arrival of spring. As spring takes hold in Seattle, the interplay of weather systems continues to illustrate the region's dynamic and often unpredictable climate, a testament to nature's ongoing dance at the intersection of seasons.
With forecasters predicting threats of heavy rain and mountain snow this weekend paired with the possible return of moderate temperatures shortly thereafter, residents are left to ponder if Seattle's iconic rainy days will ever fully fade and how they can adapt to the ongoing whims of local weather.
