Seattle rolled today under mostly cloudy skies, mid-40s temperatures, steady light rain and a southerly breeze already at work. Highs are expected to top out near 49°F before slipping a bit in the afternoon. Roads will stay wet, visibility will drop at times and the morning and evening drives are likely to be slower and sloppier than usual.
What To Expect Monday, February 23
According to the National Weather Service, steady light rain is likely through much of the day. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and a half inch are possible overnight, with an additional tenth to a quarter inch on Monday. South winds should run around 5 to 10 mph, with higher gusts near the water, and the high will be near 49°F before cooling into the evening. Plan on keeping the umbrella close and easing off the gas pedal, since the rain will leave bridge decks and low spots slick.
Mountains, Marine And Travel
The NWS Seattle notes that a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Cascade zones through 1 p.m. PST Monday. Snow levels will hover around 3,000 to 4,000 feet this morning before lowering later in the day. Small Craft Advisories are also in place for parts of Puget Sound and nearby coastal waters, which could mean rougher conditions for smaller boats and some ferry schedule headaches. If you are planning to head over the passes, check current restrictions and chain requirements on the WSDOT travel alerts page before you go.
Commute Tips
Give yourself a little extra time for Monday's commute, slow down on wet pavement and watch for standing water on ramps and in low-lying spots. If you are driving into the mountains, bring traction devices and be ready for possible backups at Snoqualmie and other passes. Transit riders should check their provider's service alerts before heading out, and drivers should plan for longer travel times pretty much all day.
For more on how this pattern set up and what forecasters were seeing ahead of the workweek, take a look at Sunday's gray-skies rundown from earlier in the weekend.
