Washington – Headlights glow on rain-slick pavement as showers slide through before sunrise, setting a damp tone that won’t fade quickly. Side streets shine, freeway spray kicks up, and umbrellas earn their keep.
According to the National Weather Service, a Pacific system keeps rain in the mix today and again Thursday, with periods of steadier rainfall and brief lulls. Temperatures hover in the upper 40s to low 50s, cool enough to keep surfaces wet and slow drying times. Southeast winds occasionally gust, adding spray and reducing visibility during heavier bursts.
Across Seattle and King County, expect the most impact during drive times. I-5, SR-99, and I-90 see slick conditions, especially where water pools near on-ramps and curves. Plan extra time, increase following distance, and watch for pedestrians in low visibility. Neighborhood hills can feel greasy after the first rounds of rain.
Rain continues into Thursday with pockets of heavier showers possible. By Friday, showers linger but may break at times, allowing brief dry windows. Temperatures inch up toward the low 50s, but clouds remain stubborn. Saturday trends milder, with a lighter chance of rain and highs pushing the mid-50s. Any drying is short-lived, as another round of showers may return later.
This local pattern fits a broader setup. Onshore flow keeps the Pacific Northwest wet while colder air presses east of the Rockies. NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors near-normal precipitation for western Washington into early February, suggesting the wet theme persists without extreme cold.
For now, timing matters. Expect reduced visibility during showers, slick crosswalks, and spray on freeways. Keep rain gear handy and slow down where standing water forms. Seeing ponding or slick spots on your route today? Share what you’re encountering.
Five-Day Outlook for Seattle, Washington
- Today: Rain at times, high near 49°F
- Thursday: Rain likely, high near 52°F
- Friday: Showers, high near 53°F
- Saturday: Slight chance of rain, high near 56°F
- Sunday: Showers possible, high near 54°F
