Is Seattle Known For Snow?

Though Seattle's reputation is based on misty mornings and continuous drizzles, snow does not necessarily never fall there. Although some winters go with hardly a dusting, the city averages about six inches of snow annually. Seattle's snowfall is erratic. Occasionally, it brings unanticipated storms and other times, it skips a whole season. The mild temperatures of the city cause snow to melt fast when it falls. When it does occur, the rareness of heavy snowfall makes it unforgettable.

The Unique Location Of Seattle Plays A Major Role In Determining How Much Snow Actually Reaches The Ground

Between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, which significantly affect Seattle's climate, sits the city. The nearby ocean helps to moderate temperatures, which makes snow less likely to stick. Snowfall is possible when cold air from Canada moves south, but warm Pacific air usually arrives shortly after and melts whatever gathers. The elevation of the city is rather low when compared to places just east of the mountains, where snowfall is far more frequent. These factors can cause erratic and brief snowfall in Seattle.

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Areas Just Outside Of Seattle Experience Much More Snowfall Every Year Because Of Their Higher Elevation

Though Seattle's snowfall is erratic, just a short drive away, things seem rather different. Snowfall in the Cascade Mountains, including Snoqualmie Pass, falls well over 300 inches annually. With almost 1,100 inches, Mount Baker, further north, once set the world record for the most snowfall in a single season. The variations in elevation between Seattle and these regions help to explain why some areas are buried in snow while the city only gets a meager covering.

Seattle Has Experienced A Few Heavy Snowstorms But They Are Not Something People Expect Every Winter

Although Seattle does not yearly get buried in snow, history suggests that major snowfalls are possible. With almost 60 inches of snowfall over the city, the winter of 1950 holds the record for the snowiest season. More recently, some places saw more than 20 inches of snowfall from the February 2019 snowfall, which closed roads and virtually made travel impossible. These events serve to remind residents that, although rare, Seattle snowstorms can be rather severe and disruptive.

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The City Of Seattle Is Not Always Fully Prepared For Snowfall Because It Does Not Happen Often Enough

Because Seattle doesn't get snow very often, the city doesn't spend a lot of money on tools to get rid of it. During winter storms, it can be hard for the city to keep roads clear and public transportation running smoothly. When you're driving, hills can be dangerous. It only takes a few inches of snow for businesses and schools to close. When people are stuck inside, a lot of them hire local businesses like Maria's Green Cleaning to keep their homes clean. Because Seattle doesn't have many tools for dealing with snow, its response to winter events can sometimes seem unprepared.

Seattle's Winter Weather Will Always Be Unpredictable But Significant Snowfall Is Not Something That Happens Often

Though winter here is erratic, Seattle is unlikely to ever be referred to as a snowy city. While some years see hardly any snowfall, others find surprise storms that cause daily life to be disrupted. Ocean influence, mountain topography, and changing temperatures combine to make no two winters the same. Though snow might not define Seattle's temperature, its sporadic presence guarantees that people notice when it does arrive.

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