Seattle wakes up to clear skies and mild temps Wednesday, with Boeing Field near 59°F this morning and plenty of sunshine expected through the afternoon. Highs should land around 82°F, setting up a warm, mostly dry day before a passing system drags in a shot at showers and thunderstorms on Thursday. Winds stay on the lighter side today, while coastal spots and higher elevations see a shift as the low moves in. Enjoy those evening plans tonight, but keep a backup rain option ready for Thursday.
Afternoon Sun and Light Northwest Breeze
Inland neighborhoods will run the warmest, while waterfront areas hold a few degrees cooler under the marine influence. Winds should generally stay below about 10 mph, so lakeside walks and patio dining will feel comfortable. Lower humidity inland means the warmth should not feel too stifling for most people.
Thunder Risk Thursday
A low sliding through the region Thursday brings a chance of morning rain, with showers and thunderstorms most likely from about 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Most spots are only expected to see light rainfall (generally under a tenth of an inch), but a few storms could fire off lightning and sudden, gusty outflows that briefly kick up the wind. If you are planning big outdoor events, try to avoid the midday window and keep an eye on updates from the National Weather Service Seattle.
Fire Weather Watch For The High Country
Higher terrain, including the Olympic Mountains and the west slopes of the Cascades above about 1,500 feet, is under a Fire Weather Watch from late tonight through Thursday evening. Forecasters highlight dry lightning and strong outflow winds as the main concerns, which could spark new fires where fuels are dry. Hikers and campers should use extra caution. If you had open burning or backcountry travel on the agenda, it may be smarter to push those plans back until conditions calm down.
What To Watch And How To Prepare
Try to move major outdoor gatherings out of the 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. slot on Thursday if you can, and have a quick plan for rain and shelter. Keep pets and vulnerable neighbors shaded and well hydrated. Check the latest watches and forecast tweaks before heading out; the National Weather Service Seattle remains the go-to source for changes. For mountain trips, go in with a lightning-shelter strategy and be ready to head downhill fast if storms build.
