Washington – Headlights shimmer across wet pavement downtown as low clouds hang over Elliott Bay and drizzle begins to thicken. The air feels mild but damp, and the day starts gray with rain slowly filling back in.
According to the National Weather Service, rain spreads across Seattle and much of western Washington through the day, with periods of steadier rainfall by Sunday. Daily highs hover in the low to mid-50s, while overnight lows settle in the mid-40s. Rain chances peak Sunday into Monday, when wet roads and reduced visibility may slow travel.
Drivers should expect slick conditions along I-5, I-90, and Highway 99, especially during heavier bursts of rain. While rainfall totals remain modest, standing water may develop in poor drainage areas. Allow extra time and watch for brake lights during afternoon and evening travel.
By Tuesday, rainfall tapers. Clouds linger, but drier breaks develop with highs near the upper 50s. Wednesday trends brighter, with partial sunshine and temperatures approaching 60 degrees. Nights stay cool but above freezing, limiting winter travel concerns locally.
Nationally, the weather picture looks far more dangerous. Nearly half of the Great Lakes are frozen, reinforcing Arctic air across the Midwest and East. That cold fuels winter storms, icy roads, and life-threatening wind chills from the Ohio Valley to the Southeast into early February. The Pacific Northwest remains on the mild side of that divide, with rain instead of snow at lower elevations.
Looking ahead to the first full week of February, longer-range outlooks suggest near-normal precipitation for western Washington. Temperatures lean slightly above average, keeping snow confined to the Cascades while lowlands stay wet.
For now, keep rain gear close, slow down on slick roads, and check drains near homes and businesses. Wet weather may be routine here, but impacts add up quickly.
Seeing ponding or heavier rain where you are? Let us know what conditions look like in your neighborhood.
Five Day Outlook for Seattle, Washington
- Monday: Rain likely, high near 52°F
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 58°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 60°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 60°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 58°F
