Does Seattle get hot in the summer?
Known as Washington's largest city, Seattle is identified for its green, lush landscape, the thriving tech industry, and the vibrant culture scene, but there's a reputation that usually precedes everything. Most people think that this city only presents the typical scenario of rain, and overcast skies along with cool temperatures. But what about summer? Does Seattle ever get hot? Let's find out.
Seattle has a temperate climate
Seattle is considered to have a temperate climate, with very mild temperatures throughout the year. A location close to the Pacific Ocean moderates high and low temperatures so that extremes do not occur in this salubrious environment. The weather is fine enough there during the summer season, ranging between June and August, and average daytime temperatures keep around the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, about 23-27 degrees Celsius.
The Influence of the Pacific Ocean
One of the principal reasons why summer temperatures in Seattle remain relatively low is the influence of the nearby Pacific Ocean. The cold waters of the Pacific play the role of a natural air conditioner in moderating the climate of the city. Thus, during the hottest days, Seattle hardly feels the scorching heat which is otherwise an experience for many other cities lying around similar latitudes.
Rare Heat Waves
Overall, the pattern in Seattle summers is typical, but from time to time, there are some heat waves that push the temperatures. About each few years Seattle might have a string of unusually warm weather, where temperatures shoot up into the high 80's or sometimes low 90's Fahrenheit (30-35°C). Normally such periods of warmth are short-lived.
On such days, these few hot days, Seattleites flock to the numerous city parks, beaches, and lakes to cool off and laze in the sun. Local favorites include Alki Beach, Green Lake, and the Washington Park Arboretum.
The Role of Urban Heat Islands
The moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean notwithstanding, places in Seattle can experience temperatures slightly higher than average during summer months because of the urban heat island effect. Urban heat islands are actually defined as built-up areas that have significantly higher temperatures than their surrounding rural areas, mostly due to the existence of heat-absorbent surfaces such as asphalt and concrete.
In Seattle, such areas feel a bit warmer in buildings that are close to each other and the vegetation and tree covers are not too much. However, the city has reduced the amount of urban heat island effect by promoting green roofs, urban forestry, and cool pavements.
It rains in the summer in Seattle
Even though Seattle goes with a very rainy reputation, summer turns out to be really the driest months for the city. The average rainfall in Seattle is less than 2 inches, about 50 mm, each month of summer, with July being the driest. It only follows that beyond any sporadic showers or thunderstorms, Seattle summers are typically pleasant and quite dry, allowing for a host of activities both by the residents and visiting tourists. During these dry months, it's an ideal time to schedule deep cleaning services to ensure your home stays spotless and fresh.
Conclusion
In conclusion, summer in Seattle might not be as feverish as in other cities; however, it is gentle and rather attractive. With average daytime temperatures from the mid 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, and low humidity levels, Seattle summers are wonderful for visiting other outdoor attractions like festivals and events within the city.
Therefore, this summer, if the plan involves a visit to Seattle, remember not to let Seattle's rainy reputation fool you. Be sure to pack a light jacket for the occasional cool evening, lots of daytime sunshine, mild temperatures, and all the outdoor adventures that Seattle offers. And for a clean, eco-friendly stay, consider utilizing Seattle green cleaning services to keep your living space fresh and sustainable.