In the Pacific Northwest, Seattle has a temperate climate often described as “modified Mediterranean.” Known for its cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers, the city benefits from the moderating effects of the Pacific Ocean, Puget Sound, and Lake Washington. This proximity ensures mild winters and cooler summers compared to inland areas. But does it snow in Seattle? Is there any chance you could enjoy snowfall while visiting Seattle? Here’s everything you need to know about.
Does it Snow in Seattle?
Yes, it does snow in Seattle, but snowfall is typically light and infrequent. The city usually receives at least some light snowfall yearly, although heavy snowfall is uncommon. Seattle’s climate supports lush vegetation due to its reliance on cooler-season precipitation. Seattle’s snowfall averages five days per year.
Take a look at this table to learn everything about snowing in Seattle:
| Period | Snowfall Information |
| Average Annual Snowfall | 6.3 inches |
| High Snowfall Periods | Especially in the 1950s and 60s |
| Record Measurement Locations | Sea-Tac Airport (1945-1996, 2004-present) |
| Unmeasured Period (when snowfall is not recorded) | 1996-2004 |
| One-Day Snowfall Record at Sea-Tac | 20 inches on January 13, 1950 |
| Overall Snowiest 24-Hour Period | 21.5 inches on February 1-2, 1916 (measured at the Federal Building in downtown Seattle) |
When does it snow in Seattle?
Seattle’s snowfall typically occurs in winter, primarily from January to February. However, snow can occasionally fall as early as November and as late as March. Due to its temperate climate, the city’s snowfall is usually light and infrequent, with heavy snowfall being a rare event. The most common time for snow is during the colder periods of winter when temperatures are low enough for precipitation to fall as snow rather than rain.
Typically, Seattle’s temperatures range from 21 °F (−6 °C) in the coldest months to 94 °F (34 °C) in the warmest months. Winters are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dipping into extreme lows. Cold air from the Fraser Valley in British Columbia occasionally brings more frigid temperatures.
Where to enjoy snow in Seattle?
In Seattle
Discovery Park: This large park offers beautiful open spaces and trails when covered in snow, making it a great spot for a winter walk.
Volunteer Park: Located in Capitol Hill, this park provides picturesque snowy landscapes and is perfect for snowball fights and building snowmen.
Green Lake Park: A popular spot for walking, running, and enjoying the snow-covered scenery around the lake.
Gas Works Park: Offers unique views of the city and is a fun place to enjoy the snow with a backdrop of Seattle’s skyline.
Nearby Areas
Snoqualmie Pass: Located about an hour’s drive east of Seattle, Snoqualmie Pass is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing.
Stevens Pass: Another excellent skiing and snowboarding destination located about two hours from Seattle, offering a variety of winter sports.
Mount Rainier National Park: The place offers stunning winter landscapes and numerous snow activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Leavenworth: A Bavarian-style village about two hours from Seattle. The place is known for its festive winter atmosphere and snow-related activities.
Higher Elevations within Seattle
Queen Anne Hill Often receives more snow than lower areas, making for picturesque views and a great place to enjoy a snowy day.
Capitol Hill: Higher elevation areas with more significant snowfall, offering charming winter scenery.
Why does it Snow in Seattle?
Geographical Factors
Proximity to Water
Seattle is surrounded by bodies of water, including the Pacific Ocean, Puget Sound, and Lake Washington. These large water bodies moderate the climate, keeping temperatures relatively mild. However, this moderation can be overridden under certain conditions, leading to snow.
Topography
The city’s topography includes various elevations, with some areas like Queen Anne and Capitol Hill higher than others. Higher elevations can be cooler and more likely to receive snow.
Meteorological Factors
Cold Air Masses
For snow to fall, cold air masses must move into the region. These typically originate from the Arctic or Canada. When cold air moves southward into the Seattle area, temperatures can drop sufficiently for snow to form.
Moisture from the Pacific
Snow requires moisture. The Pacific Ocean provides a significant source of moisture that can lead to precipitation. When this moisture encounters cold air, it can fall as snow instead of rain.
Fraser Valley Outflow
Occasionally, cold air from the interior of British Columbia flows through the Fraser Valley into the Puget Sound region. This phenomenon can bring frigid air into the Seattle area, lowering temperatures and making snowfall more likely.
Weather Systems
Specific weather systems, such as low-pressure systems, can bring the necessary cold air and moisture together. When these systems pass over or near Seattle, they can lead to snowfall. For instance, snow can occur if a low-pressure system draws in cold air from the north and mixes it with moist air from the Pacific.
Best Time to Visit Seattle
The ideal times to visit Seattle are April to May and September to October. During these months, you can enjoy moderate temperatures and relatively low humidity, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
