Dry January in Western Washington Set to End with Rain, Mountain Snow, and Potential Lowland Snow
Western Washington has experienced an unusually dry start to January, accompanied by persistently cool conditions. With just over an inch of rain recorded so far this month, Seattle is on pace for its third-driest January since record-keeping began at Sea-Tac Airport in 1945.
However, a significant weather pattern shift is on the horizon, promising rain, mountain snow, and even the potential for lowland snow in the coming days.
For nearly two weeks, meteorologists have been tracking a weakening ridge of high pressure that has kept weather systems at bay. This change begins late this week when a moist Pacific front arrives, bringing rain to the coast by Thursday evening and spreading inland on Friday.
Temperatures in the lowlands are expected to climb into the 40s to near 50 degrees on Friday, marking the first day of above-normal temperatures in nearly three weeks. Along with the rain, breezy conditions are anticipated, making Friday feel markedly different from the recent chill.
In the mountains, the incoming system will bring significant snowfall, particularly above 4,000 feet. Areas like Stevens Pass could see more than a foot of fresh snow, while Snoqualmie Pass is likely to receive smaller amounts. Travelers planning to cross the Cascades should prepare for rapidly changing weather and challenging driving conditions through the weekend.
Friday’s brief warmth will be short-lived. As the low-pressure system moves inland, cold air from British Columbia will sweep into the region, dropping temperatures. By Saturday, highs in Seattle will hover around 40 degrees, with snow levels falling to 1,000 feet or lower. The air may cool further into Sunday and Monday.
The key uncertainty in the forecast is whether there will be sufficient moisture to produce significant lowland snow. Current forecast models as of Monday night suggest mostly light snow showers from late Saturday through early next week. Still, the situation remains fluid, and forecasters will continue to refine predictions as the week progresses.
Western Washington’s varied terrain and elevations add complexity to snow forecasts. Should significant lowland snow occur, the most likely areas for accumulation are the North Sound, north interior near the Canadian border, and the eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca. Even so, many scenarios are possible.
At a minimum, most of Western Washington is expected to see at least a few snowflakes between Saturday and Monday.
Looking beyond Monday, the forecast becomes less clear. Long-range predictions indicate continued chilly conditions with the possibility of additional snow chances. With such a dynamic weather pattern shaping up, the next week or two promise to be eventful for the Pacific Northwest.
Stay tuned for updates as the forecast evolves, and prepare for winter weather impacts across the region.