Olympia's temperature records were toppled Sunday as the mercury soared to a balmy 61 degrees, according to the National Weather Services Seattle. This figure eclipsed the previous high of 60 degrees set in the bygone era of 1952, marking an unseasonable warmth in the region. While residents experienced the heat, a forecast promises more mugginess and precipitation on the horizon.
Record high of 61 was set at Olympia today, breaking the old record of 60 set back in 1952.#WAwx
— NWS Seattle (@NWSSeattle) January 28, 2024
NWS Seattle projected a high of 58 degrees Sunday, accompanied by likely rain showers mainly before the mid-morning. Looking into the start of the workweek, the forecast indicates a consistent chance of rain each day and high temperatures in the low 60s, which continues to threaten the northwest with a slew of weather-related concerns.
Meanwhile, Komo Seattle Weather Forecast has sounded alarms for residents, warning of a spike in landslide and avalanche risks due to the rain-saturated soil and soaked snow in the Cascades. "More rain continues to slam into western Washington," the forecast specified, highlighting the mild temperatures and high snow levels that contribute to the unstable conditions in mountainous areas.
An Avalanche Warning has been posted for parts of the north Cascades, with experts advising outdoor enthusiasts to avoid backcountry expeditions in both the Cascades and Olympics. Furthermore, the deluge is expected to usher in the potential for mild to moderate flooding in lowlands over the next few days, as rivers swell with the combination of relentless rainfall and melting alpine snow.
Despite Tuesday's slight reduction in rainfall, temperatures are set to remain unusually high for this time of year, promising upper 50s across the area. The wet weather pattern is slated to persist through the week, with Seattle residents bracing for more showers on Wednesday and Thursday, and a mix of sporadic rain and sunbreaks to round out the week on Friday.
