Seattle

Seattle Thaws Out as Sun Sneaks Back, but Soggy Sunday Lurks

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Published on March 26, 2026
Seattle Thaws Out as Sun Sneaks Back, but Soggy Sunday LurksSource: Google Street View

Seattle woke up Thursday, March 26, 2026, to clear skies, cold breath, and a mid-morning temperature hovering near 36°F. Sunshine will gradually bump readings into the low 50s this afternoon, with highs around 52°F and light southerly winds making it a solid day for an outdoor coffee break or an easy commute. Skies turn partly cloudy tonight, with lows settling near 35–38°F as the region slips into a short dry stretch that runs through Saturday.

Afternoon and Tonight

Sun will dominate through the afternoon, with south winds around 5–6 mph and only a slight chance of a passing sprinkle. According to the National Weather Service, the high should top out near 52°F before sliding back into the mid-30s overnight. With comfortable daytime air and barely-there breezes, the evening commute around Seattle is expected to stay smooth, with no major weather-related travel issues.

Weekend Outlook

Friday and Saturday keep the quiet pattern going, with highs in the low-to-mid 50s and skies ranging from mostly to partly sunny. The mood changes Sunday, March 29, as rain chances move back in, with light showers possible after about 11 a.m. and a high near 53°F. Anyone banking on outdoor plans Sunday should be ready for a damp finish to the weekend. Monday, March 30, hangs onto a chance of light rain and highs around 51°F as the next system nudges across the region and keeps things unsettled.

Mountains And Travel

While the lowlands enjoy a breather, the Cascades remain the wildcard. Minor snow accumulations are possible Sunday night into Monday above the passes, and drivers are urged to check conditions before heading over Snoqualmie or Stevens. A winter weather advisory for some Cascade areas expired early Thursday morning, but the potential for low snow levels later this weekend means traction rules and chain requirements could return. If your plans take you across the mountains, give yourself extra time and double-check conditions before you go.

March Rainfall And What It Means

March has been running unusually wet across western Washington, and the month is on pace to land among the top ten wettest for several local stations. Hydrology updates from the National Weather Service's Seattle office note that Seattle has picked up roughly 6.5 inches of rain through March 25, with nearby locations also well above normal. That soggy tally helps explain why soils and rivers remain primed for runoff. For continuing forecasts and mountain travel updates, residents are encouraged to keep an eye on the National Weather Service.