Seattle woke up under a gray blanket this morning, with steady light rain, temperatures near 50°F and a commute that is already more windshield wipers than scenery. A train of Pacific systems is lining up to keep the city wet and breezy for several days, while the Cascades gear up for a solid shot of mountain snow from Sunday night into midweek.
This Afternoon And Sunday
Rain stays in the picture through Sunday, with highs near 52°F before slipping back into the upper 40s later in the day. Winds should be on the mild side, generally 7 to 12 mph, with occasional gusts in the 20 to 25 mph range. Most spots can expect roughly a tenth to a quarter inch of new rain, though northern neighborhoods caught under any convergence zone could see heavier showers. Plan on slower traffic, extra road spray and plenty of puddle-hopping on sidewalks.
Sunday Night Into Monday
Rain carries over into Sunday night and early Monday, and some areas, especially near the foothills and on higher local roads, could see a mix of rain and snow before daybreak Monday, March 9, 2026. Accumulation in the lowest elevations should stay minimal, but the foothills may pick up an inch or two, enough to make untreated surfaces slick. If you are headed out early Monday, build in extra time and check the latest mountain pass updates before you go.
Mountains, Watches And Midweek Risks
A Winter Storm Warning is up from Sunday evening, March 8, through early Tuesday, March 10 for the higher Cascades from Stevens Pass north to Mount Baker, with Winter Weather Advisories for parts of the southern and central Cascades. Higher elevations could see several inches of snow in the near term and a foot or more above about 3,500 feet later in the week. At the same time, heavy rain over the Olympics and rising snow levels will increase the risk of Skokomish River rises and some localized flooding by midweek. For the latest on watches, warnings and river or marine conditions, check the National Weather Service Seattle.
Marine And Travel Impacts
Small Craft Advisories are in effect on Puget Sound and parts of the Strait, with coastal seas building to around 10 to 11 feet tonight and possibly growing to 15 to 17 feet by Wednesday as a stronger front moves in. Periods of gusty southerly wind this week may slow ferry runs and make bridge crossings feel a bit lively, while pass travel could face delays and chain requirements. If you live near low-lying rivers or creeks, keep tabs on local gauges and steer clear of standing water on the roads.
What To Do
Keep the rain gear handy, ease off the gas on wet pavement and plan a little extra time for any trip. If you need to cross the Cascades from late Sunday through Tuesday, pack traction devices and check WSDOT and local advisories before you hit the road. We will share updates if any watches or warnings are upgraded or change.
