Seattle Faces Warmest December in Years, No White Christmas Expected

Seattle residents who are dreaming of a white Christmas may be disappointed this year, as the latest forecast suggests warm and wet weather for the holiday season.

According to the National Weather Service, there is a 50% chance of rain overnight, followed by a slight chance of rain and patchy fog on Monday.

The rest of the week will see mostly cloudy skies, with a high chance of rain on Wednesday and Thursday.

How Unusual Is a Snowless Christmas in Seattle?

(Photo : JASON REDMOND/AFP via Getty Images)

While snow is not very common in Seattle, it is not unheard of either. The city has seen snow on the ground on Christmas Day 11 times since 1945, with the most recent one being in 2017.

The chances of having a white Christmas in Seattle are about 7%, based on historical data.

However, this year, the odds are even lower, as a warm and moist air mass is expected to dominate the region, bringing above-average temperatures and precipitation.

The average high temperature for December in Seattle is 46°F, but this week, the highs will range from 47°F to 49°F2. The average monthly rainfall for December is 5.35 inches, but this month, Seattle has already received 4.72 inches of rain as of Dec. 10.

What Are the Impacts of the Warm and Wet Weather?

The warm and wet weather may have some positive and negative impacts for Seattle residents and visitors.

On the positive side, the mild temperatures may make outdoor activities more comfortable and enjoyable, especially for those who are not fond of the cold.

The rain may also help replenish the water supply and reduce the risk of drought in the future.

On the negative side, the rain and fog may cause some travel delays and disruptions, especially for those who are flying in or out of the city.

The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has reported some flight cancellations and diversions due to the low visibility and poor runway conditions.

The rain may also increase the risk of flooding and landslides in some areas, especially along the coast and in the mountains.

The National Weather Service has issued a small craft advisory for the Puget Sound and the coastal waters, warning of hazardous wind and wave conditions.

Also Read: Heavy Rains and Mountain Snow to Unload in Northwest; Seattle Could Expect Relief from Dry weather

What Is the Outlook for the Rest of the Winter Season in Seattle?

The weather forecast for the rest of the winter season in Seattle is not very promising for snow lovers, either.

According to the NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, the outlook for December, January, and February indicates that there is a 40% to 50% hance of above-normal temperatures and a 33% to 40% chance of above-normal precipitation for the Pacific Northwest region.

This means that Seattle is more likely to experience warmer and wetter conditions than usual, which may limit the chances of snow accumulation.

However, there is still some uncertainty in the long-term forecast, as the weather patterns may change due to various factors, such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, the Arctic Oscillation, and the Madden-Julian Oscillation.

These are natural phenomena that affect the global climate and weather by altering the atmospheric pressure, temperature, and moisture.

Therefore, there is still a possibility of some cold and snowy spells in Seattle, especially in the higher elevations and the mountain passes.

Related article: Pacific Northwest US Weather: Low-Pressure to Ease Dry Conditions in Seattle, Portland