Washington — A gray curtain of rain hangs over Seattle this morning, and the wet pavement along I-5 already reflects headlights from the early commute. The rain will not let up quickly. Multiple rounds of steady March rainfall are moving into western Washington, and rivers draining the Cascades are expected to swell through midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a Hydrologic Outlook warns that moderate to heavy rainfall combined with melting mountain snow will push several rivers toward action stage this week. A few rivers could approach minor flood stage before the week ends if rainfall totals increase.
Rain is expected nearly every day through Wednesday across the Seattle metro area. Periods of steady showers will keep roads damp and visibility reduced during the busiest commute windows. Drivers along Interstate 5, Interstate 90, and State Route 520 should expect slower travel during heavier rainfall bursts.
Downtown Seattle temperatures remain cool but steady. Afternoon highs hover near the mid-50s, while nighttime lows stay in the upper 40s to lower 50s. Winds will occasionally gust around 20 mph, especially during stronger rain bands.
Meteorologists say the biggest concern sits east of the city where rivers drain the central and northern Cascades. Heavy rain falling on higher snow levels accelerates runoff into waterways like the Snoqualmie, Skagit, and Snohomish rivers. These rivers could rise steadily through Wednesday and remain elevated into late week.
Residents near rivers or flood-prone lowlands should monitor water levels closely. Avoid flooded roadways and allow extra travel time during steady rain periods. Commuters should keep headlights on and reduce speed when pavement becomes slick.
Forecasters say the broader pattern remains active across the Pacific Northwest as moisture continues feeding into the region. Conditions may gradually improve toward the weekend if rainfall begins to ease.
Five Day Forecast for Seattle, Washington
Monday: Rain likely with cloudy skies. High near 55°F.
Tuesday: Steady rain. High near 55°F.
Wednesday: Rain continues. High near 56°F.
Thursday: Periods of rain. High near 57°F.
Friday: Cloudy with rain likely. High near 56°F.
