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Seattle Weather: Whiplash Ahead of Summer Heat
31 May
Summary
- Temperatures fluctuate dramatically between days.
- Early June could bring the warmest temperatures of the year.
- Drying grasses pose a wildfire risk on both sides of mountains.
Washington is experiencing notable temperature volatility, termed "weather whiplash." Following severe thunderstorms and thousands of lightning strikes on Thursday, May 28th, 2026, Friday, May 29th, 2026, saw a dramatic temperature drop of over 20 degrees. May will conclude warmer and drier than average, with June expected to follow suit.
The upcoming weekend, May 30th and May 31st, 2026, will be cooler but sunny, with temperatures near the average high of 69°F for Seattle. However, early next week, a building ridge of high pressure will usher in abundant sunshine and offshore winds, turning off the usual cool Pacific breeze. Highs in Seattle are predicted to climb into the 70s on Monday, June 1st, 2026, with Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026, forecasted to be the warmest day of the year so far at 84°F. Some foothill and southern Washington communities could even reach 90°F.
While brief heat stress is possible for those without air conditioning, the cooling onshore wind flow is expected to return by Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026, offering some relief. Cooler days and potential rain chances are anticipated later that week. With the approaching warm weather, caution is urged regarding fire safety, as dry grasses on both sides of the mountains are susceptible to burning.
